The following is information on how I work with clients:
Initial Consultation
The purpose of the initial consultation is for us to decide if it is appropriate to work together. Sometimes it may take more than one session to establish this.
Length and Frequency of Sessions
In individual therapy, each session lasts for 50 minutes and is 60 minutes for couples. Initially we ideally meet once a week. Having established a therapeutic relationship the ongoing frequency and length of therapy is reviewed and decided mutually. I work with people on a weekly or fortnightly basis. Unless we are ending and have agreed to meet at longer intervals.
I offer brief, medium and long term therapy to take account of clients' different needs. Brief therapy focuses on specific issues within a contracted number of sessions. The number of sessions may be reviewed as necessary.
Medium and longer term psychotherapy involves a different commitment of time a deeper exploration of our relationship to ourselves. In this work we have regular reviews and discussions to look at how the therapeutic relationship is progressing.
Fees
My full fee for individuals is £65 per session and £80 for couples, this is payable at the end of each session (via bank transfer).
In cases of hardship, I may have lower cost sessions available - usually during the day time - so if you would like to work with me please enquire.
Cancellations
In the event that you need to cancel a booked session, please be aware that I will still charge my full fee unless seven days notice is given. However if I have alternative availability in that calendar week then it may be possible to swap your appointment - please note that this may not be possible.
Late for Sessions
If you are late for a session then we work for the remainder of the session and the full fee is payable. If I am running late then we will make the time up at a mutually convenient time and date - ideally on the day.
Medication
It is helpful for me to know if you are taking any medication whilst working with you. Some forms of medication can have an influence on the therapeutic process and it is helpful for me to know this in our first session.
Codes of Ethics and Professional Standards
I am a UKCP Registered Psychotherapist, through Spectrum, I am also a registered member of the BACP I follow their professional standards and code of ethics.
Both organisations ethic's include continued professional development by attending a range of workshops and courses through out the year. These broaden and deepen my professional knowledge, skills and experience. Also as part of these ethics I have regular supervision.
Confidentiality
What a client says to me is confidential unless I have reason to believe that they may cause harm to themselves or others. If the circumstances arise where it necessitates a break in confidentiality, it will be done where possible with the clients' consent and only to those parties who have an absolute need to know. This is discussed in our initial session.