FAQ

I understand that taking the first step to seek support can feel daunting. These frequently asked questions are designed to help you understand how I work and what you can expect from our sessions together. With nearly 25 years’ experience as a GP, I offer a safe and confidential space where you can explore what’s troubling you at your own pace. If you don’t find the answer you’re looking for here, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Stress means different things to different people. Issues that clients raise with me include: overwhelm, too much going on, work taking over, issues at work, personal life issues, loss of confidence and self-esteem, grief, relationship issues, parenting struggles, generally not coping, health problems. When you are stressed, your brain is in survival mode which affects your thinking, your physical health and your emotional wellbeing. You may end up resorting to unhealthy ways of coping and end up spiralling. I help ground you so that your primitive brain switches off and you can start to think more clearly and objectively. I help you understand what is going on and what you can do to feel better. Amongst other things, I can help you feel calmer, more in control, and remind you who you are and how to enjoy life.

They are tailored to your specific needs. In the first session, I may ask if you’re happy to complete a couple of simple questionnaires around anxiety and depression, but they are not essential. I’ll then ask you to tell me what has been going on for you and what prompted you to seek help. Asking you some general questions will help me build up a bit of a picture of you as a person which helps me support you. Thereafter, we see where the session takes us and likewise for further sessions. I will listen, ask questions to encourage reflection, sometimes use psychological tools if appropriate, and provide self-care tools which I think will help you. I may also provide practical advice.

Just tell me and we won’t go there, unless you change your mind at a later date.

Make a note of it and let me know and we will talk about it. Likewise, if you find yourself reflecting on something we’ve discussed and want to explore it further. The sessions are about you. There is no pre-determined structure.

I charge £75 for one off hour-long sessions. If you’re happy to book a block of four sessions and pay upfront, they work out at £70 per session (total £280). If you’re wanting to book a block of 6 sessions and pay upfront, they work out at £65 per session (total £390).

In my experience, most people find that a block of 4 sessions works well. They can top up with a one off hour-long session if needed. However, some clients have booked an additional block of 4 as they’ve discovered further issues they’ve wanted to explore. Sometimes, a block of 6 feels right if there is a lot going on. It allows frequent sessions initially and then a bit more space between them. I’ve also had clients with ongoing issues which can’t be resolved and they have continued to have a session once a month or so to help them cope. A block of 4 is often a good starting point, though.

As long as you let me know before 5pm the day before, that is no problem. If you cancel after this time, I’m afraid you will still be charged or it will be included as one of your block.

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Why not book a call with me and we can have a chat. Alternatively, complete an online submission or email me (please see my contact page). I’ll happily answer any other questions you may have.