FAQs
How much can I expect everything I say to remain confidential?
Anything discussed or revealed in therapy is confidential and shared with no one else. The only exception to this is if it becomes clear that someone, including yourself, may be at imminent risk of serious harm. In that situation therapists are under a legal obligation to do what they can to prevent harm.
Will the psychologist refuse to speak or respond only with questions?
No. There are some therapists who adopt a “blank slate” position but my approach to psychology is far more like a normal conversation. I may listen more than I talk, but I will offer suggestions and share anything I feel could be helpful.
Can having therapy affect my employment or reputation?
It is up to you whether you choose to inform anyone that you are having therapy. Neither the psychologist or yourself is under any obligation to share information with employers or others and this can be discussed and agreed when we meet. It is standard practise to inform a client’s GP if they did not make the initial referral, but this too is not obligatory.
Reports may be provided to GPs, psychiatrists, employers, solicitors or health insurers – but only if you request or agree to this. I do not provide certain reports such as legal assessments. Where certain types of report are provided there may be an additional fee, but this would be discussed and agreed with you in advance.
What is the process for getting therapy?
Simply fill in the contact form on this website or use the phone number provided. If an insurance company is funding the sessions I will need some details to get authorisation from them, but this normally takes less than five minutes. In the first session you will be given some brief information, asked what issues you are experiencing and for some background and personal history. Once that is done I will suggest an approach for how we would aim to improve things for you.
How many sessions will I need?
This varies. Where there is a specific, well defined goal, it may be that as few as six sessions are sufficient. Others benefit from longer-term or ongoing therapy. We would discuss this and no decision would be taken without your agreement. Once therapy is underway we would review from time to time whether an ending is appropriate, possibly reducing the frequency of sessions first.
Will treatment include medication?
Medication may be helpful for some clients. If it is worth finding out about, we can discuss this and where appropriate a GP appointment or referral to a psychiatrist can follow.