What’s the difference between ‘Counselling’ and ‘Psychotherapy’?

These two terms are generally used interchangeably to mean the same thing. Sometimes ‘Counselling’ is used to refer to shorter term work (e.g. 6-12 sessions) and ‘Psychotherapy’ is used to refer to longer term work. Both refer to ‘talk therapy’, where the client explores their issues safely and collaboratively with a therapist at a pace that feels comfortable.

How long are sessions? How long will the process take?

Sessions are approximately 50 mins in length. I offer sessions on a weekly basis. Therapy is a very personal process and there is no right amount of time for the process in terms of sessions, weeks, months, years etc. Ideally, the therapeutic process has goals, a beginning, a middle and an end where the client feels they are more self-aware and accepting of themselves by the end. The therapist will check in with the client regularly throughout the process.

Is therapy confidential?

Yes, therapy is a confidential space. I follow the IACP guidelines around confidentiality and take these very seriously. There are a few exceptions to confidentiality, namely risk of harm to the client, risk of harm to others and information that would indicate that a person under the age of 18 is at risk of harm. This does not mean you cannot discuss these issues in therapy however. The details around this will be discussed further in your first session.

What will happen in my first session?

I will talk you through the process and contracting in our first session. I will also collect some general information about you and give you space to discuss what has brought you to counselling. I believe that taking the first step and coming to your first session is a courageous thing to do.

Do therapists give advice?

Generally speaking, I do not provide advice, nor do I like to give the impression that I know better than my clients. I believe that you are the expert on yourself and would like to work with you to find your own, authentic wisdom. At times, I may offer you tools or models that might help you with your process, or recommend books and other media if appropriate.

How is payment of fees handled?

I accept cash after the session, or PayPal / Revolut / bank transfers.

What if I need to cancel a session?

Where possible, I ask that clients provide a notice period of at least 24 hours. I will discuss the cancellation policy with you at your first session.

Have a question that’s not covered here or want to know more? Feel free to contact me.