Psychological therapy can help with a wide range of issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, relationship problems, grief, low self esteem, and trauma. This is not an exhaustive list - there are many reasons for entering therapy.

My research has focused on the postnatal period and difficulties parents can have following the birth of a baby. This has included the impact on fathers, and the difficulties for men in accessing therapy.

I only work with people over the age of 18.

Sessions last for 50 minutes, at a time and day that is convenient for you. Weekly or fortnightly sessions allow us to regularly and consistently work towards your goals. 

This is different for everyone, and I can offer short-term or long-term therapy, dependent on your preference and needs. We will regularly review your therapy.

Therapy services must be confidential, trustworthy, and discreet. Privacy is central to our work, so that you feel safe to explore and express your experience. I will not pass on any details about you to anyone else. 

However, there are exceptions to this. I will pass on information if you direct me to, and give written permission, if this is appropriate. I must pass on information to the relevant authorities if -

• I feel that either you or someone else is at imminent risk of serious harm. If possible, I will discuss this with you first.
• I feel that a child or protected adult is at risk of harm or abuse
• The courts instruct me to give information
• I am obliged by any relevant legislation or any other legal requirement to disclose to the appropriate bodies, for example if you share information about a proposed act of terrorism or money laundering.

I will meet regularly with a more experienced colleague in order to ensure that you receive the best possible service. This is an ethical requirement.  During these meetings your identity will be protected.

For remote work, 100% confidentiality online cannot be guaranteed. I cannot ensure privacy at your end, so it is important that you choose a room that will be the most confidential and you will not be interrupted.

These are the professional bodies related to Counselling Psychology and counselling.

Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
The HCPC is a regulator of health and care professions in the UK, including Counselling Psychologists. The role of the HCPC is to protect the public. The HCPC set standards for education, training, and practice, taking action if these are not met. By law, I must be registered with the HCPC to work as a Counselling Psychologist. 

I adhere to the HCPC standards of conduct, performance and ethics, and meet their standards of proficiency. 

https://www.hcpc-uk.org/

British Psychological Society (BPS)

The BPS is the representative body for psychologists in the UK. I adhere to the BPS Code of Ethics and Conduct. 

https://www.bps.org.uk/

British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)

The BACP is a professional association for members of the counselling professions in the UK. They hold a register of counselling professionals who meet recommended quality standards. Accredited status recognises high standards of knowledge, experience and development in counselling. I adhere to the BACP's Ethical Framwork.

https://www.bacp.co.uk/

Fees are on a sliding scale.

£70 - £100 a session, both online or in person. 

Payment will be due prior to the beginning of each session. 

I am recognised by the following insurers -

• Allianz Worldwide Care
• Aviva
• AXA Health
• Vitality Health
• WPA

Absolutely! However you feel entering therapy is OK, but it is understandable that you might feel nervous or unsure. Talking through what to expect and any concerns can demystify therapy and is essential for us to build a good foundation for our work together. 

This is absolutely OK - there are many ways of moving towards change and improving your mental health, and talking therapy is just one of them. If my services are not what you need, I will assist you in finding an alternative service if this is appropriate. 

If you are unable to attend an appointment, I ask that you give me 24 hours notice. 

Remote therapy has been proven to be as effective as face-to-face work. Its benefits may be easy scheduling, no travelling costs, less time out of your usual routine, being able to talk at a time and place that is most convenient to you and feeling less self-conscious than in person.

It has limitations such as you may prefer face-to-face contact, there are less visual and audio cues, it might be difficult for you to find a private place for our online meetings, and you may not be confident in computer use. It may also not be suitable if you have ever experienced or currently have intense suicidal feelings. Also, complete security online is never guaranteed. While there are lots of potential benefits to working online or on the telephone, working with a therapist at a distance can cause people to open up more quickly than they would if we were in a face-to-face situation. If you feel that this has happened, we can spend a few minutes talking about this and bringing you back into the here and now.

Misunderstandings may occur due to, for example, lack of facial expressions. Even with video, images may lack detail.  We can agree to have patience with the process and discuss these challenges. 

At the end of the session, rather than step straight back into normal routine you might want to manage the transition with some self-care; quiet time, favourite music or TV programme, time with a pet, something relaxing. You know what works best for you. 

Please contact me via the online form with any questions, or to arrange a conversation where we can discuss your needs.

Remember there is no silly question, I want to demystify therapy and make it as accessible and transparent as possible.