Frequently Asked Questions  

I offer opened ended therapy, which means there is no time limit on the number of sessions a person can have.  Each person is different, some may only need a few sessions whereas others may need longer.  If those I am working with prefer time limited therapy I have experience of working with clients on this basis.  

It is difficult to say, some people need six sessions, some need more.  It depends on the nature and complexity of the issues the person wishes to explore.

It is strongly recommended that you attend weekly sessions.  This maintains focus and progress and helps to develop a strong therapeutic environment for development of self.  In some circumstances we may agree that fortnightly sessions are more appropriate. 

The therapy I offer means I am not limited to the areas I work with.  I support individuals with any issues they wishes to explore, talk about and address.    

Issues I have experience of working with but not limited to:  abuse, anxiety, bereavement, bullying, depression, family dynamics, identity, low self-worth, low self-esteem, relationship issues, shame, self-identify, stress, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, trauma and those who have been diagnosed with a chronic medical condition or mental health condition.   

Yes, I work with young people aged 12 years and above.  I am Enhanced DBS checked.

Often for young people, it can be difficult for them to speak to those close to them and this can, in some cases, make them feel very isolated.  I provide a space for young people to talk to someone who does not judge them or tell them what to do.  This allows them to explore and understand their feelings and experiences. For young people this is very beneficial and can help them gain confidence in being able to share their feelings and thoughts with family and others.

I offer both telephone and online therapy via (secure) Zoom. 

It works very much like face to face therapy, we arrange a set date and time that is suitable for you. 

For telephone therapy I will call you at that appointed time. 

If we have agreed to online therapy we will meet online via zoom.  I send you a unique link and password (this will change each session to ensure security).  I have completed the Open University ‘How to do counselling online’ course that is recognised by the BACP. 

If you start with telephone therapy we can change to online therapy on Zoom at a later date, and vice versa. 

I offer online therapy to clients anywhere in the world, geography is not a limitation.  There are many reasons people can't attend face to face therapy and my online working allows me to work with individuals where ever they are based. 

I understand that at times there are unexpected siutations and you may need to cancel a session, so I ask that you give me at least 24 hours notice of this.  

If you cancel your session at short notice i.e. less than 24 hours notice, you will be charged the full fee. 

I will always give you advance notice of when I am on holiday or unavailable.  However if I ever need to reschedule or cancel at short notice, you will not be charged for your session. This policy applies to all my clients, including those who have pre-paid for a block of sessions. 

Absolutely, yes, confidentiality and privacy is very important.  It is vital in establishing a trusting therapeutic environment.  When we first meet we discuss this and what it means.  I am a member of the BACP which has clear standards for conduct and ethical behaviour (one of which is confidentiality).  

I belong to the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).  For more information please go to https://www.bacp.co.uk 

I tailor my sessions to the needs of those I work with and can include mindfulness techniques and meditation as part of counselling for stress, anxiety and a range of other presenting issues.  

No, you can book individual sessions.  However, research has shown that attending a block of 6-8 sessions provides individuals with skills and techniques and visible change in the areas they are focusing on.  Both the MBSR and MBCT courses follow an 8 week programme.   

I offer face to face sessions in North Manchester and Sheffield in bespoke talking therapy rooms with parking available. 

This is a powerful, focused treatment that supports individuals to identify, process and release emotional trauma.   Studies have found that brainspotting is as effective as EMDR in treating PTSD, and can also help some people struggling with anxiety or depression