Your Guide to Online Mental Health Therapy
Welcome to my FAQs page. Here, you’ll find answers to the most common questions I get about online mental health therapy services, helping you make informed decisions and get the support you need.
General Information: Mental Health Therapy
How do I know if counselling is right for me?
Counselling can be beneficial if you are experiencing difficulties in your life, feeling overwhelmed, or seeking support to navigate challenges.
If you are unsure whether counselling is right for you, consider scheduling a free 30 minute initial session to discuss your concerns with me. Together we can explore your needs and goals, to determine if therapy with me, is a good fit for you.
What if I’m not comfortable talking about certain topics?
If you’re not comfortable discussing certain topics, that is completely ok. Your comfort and trust are important, I will never pressure you talk about anything you are not ready to discuss. When you feel ready to talk about something troubling, I will listen.
We will work at your pace and focus on areas that feel more comfortable to you. You are in control of the counselling process and we can explore alternative ways to address your concerns and goals.
What actually happens during counselling?
During counselling, you will have the opportunity to talk about your thoughts, feelings and concerns in a safe and confidential space. I will listen without judgement, offer support and guidance, and help you explore and understand your experiences. Together we will work towards finding solutions, coping strategies and personal growth.
Can counselling make me feel worse?
This is a valid worry to have. During our sessions, some difficult emotions may arise that are challenging or upsetting for you, however this is fundamental to the process of helping you feel better overall. I will support you through any discomfort and help you develop coping strategies to manage difficult emotions.
Ultimately counselling is about growth and finding meaningful ways to address your feelings and emotions.
Who do I contact if I need urgent mental health help?
You can contact the local emergency services in your area by dialling 999 (UK) or 112 (Ireland).
You can also contact the Samaritans, Lifeline (NI) or Shout all free of charge.
Working With Me
Online & Telephone Therapy Sessions
What approaches or techniques do you use in counselling?
I am an Integrative Therapist, meaning I use a combination of therapeutic approaches: Psychodynamic, Person-Centred and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). This allows me to tailor our sessions to your individual needs and preferences, ensuring a personalised and effective therapeutic experience.
What Qualifications and Experience do you have as a Therapist?
Please see About Me for details.
Can you work with children or adolescents?
I work with anyone over the age of 18 years old.
Can you prescribe medication or diagnose conditions?
No, I am not a medically qualified professional. Whilst I have an understanding of medication and mental health issues, I cannot prescribe or advise on medications or diagnose conditions.
If medication or diagnosis is needed, I can refer to a qualified medical professional who can assist you further.
Will anybody know I am getting counselling?
Counselling is confidential and unless you tell others, they will not know. In some circumstances, your GP may need to be informed.
Your privacy and confidentiality are highly important to me throughout our work together.
Booking a Therapy Session
How do I schedule a session with you?
Please see the Contact Me page to fill out a Self-Referral Form.
What will happen when I contact you?
I aim to respond to self-referral forms within 24hrs of receiving them or at least within 48hrs. I will contact you via your chosen method to arrange a free 30 minute phone call. During this, I will ask you some questions and get a clear understanding of what is important to you, your expectations of counselling, and agree how we will work together moving forward.
This is also your time to figure out if I am right for you.
Following the phone call, I will contact you to either arrange our first session or advise an alternative option.
Fees & Payment
How long will a session last?
Each session will last 1 hour.
How much will it cost?
The initial 30 minute phone call is free.
Sessions are £40 Monday to Friday.
£45 for Saturday and Sunday.
Details for payment can be found on the Therapeutic Contract, which will be sent when arranging your first session.
How many sessions can I have?
The number of sessions is entirely up to you. The number of sessions will vary depending on you and your goal for therapy.