Whether you are looking for a therapist for the first time or returning to therapy after a break, finding the right person can be a daunting process.

Finding the right person to work with can be daunting and, if this is your first time considering therapy, you may have some questions about what happens next

Step one: find a therapist you feel comfortable with

It is essential that you feel that you and your therapist are a good fit, so the first step is to find a few therapists in your area that interest you. If you have not looked already, a great place to start is The Counselling Directory where you can search by modality, Area and special areas of focus to help you narrow your search.

If possible, get in touch with your shortlist to arrange an initial session or quick chat, either by phone or email. This offers a space for you and your prospective therapist to get a sense of each other, discuss any specific queries or concerns you may have.

If you would like to arrange to speak with me, please click here to make contact and arrange an initial call to talk through the things that have brought you to counselling in more detail, see how we might work together, and explore whether you wish to book further appointments.

Step two: take your time to decide

If you choose to book an initial call with me, there is, of course, no obligation to decide one way or another then and there – it is important that you take all the time you need to fully explore your options and ensure you make the right choice for you. We may, however, choose to look at possible ongoing session times and rates early on in our discussion to ensure we can make the practicalities work. Hopefully, this will assist you in making an informed decision about whether you would like to move forward with me.

Step three: make a start

If you do wish to begin working with me, we will then confirm a regular time to meet and an appropriate fee.

There are many reasons that people choose to embark on counselling or psychotherapy - a recent or long-past trauma, a particular irksome issue that just won’t go away, or even the simple hope that life could feel more fulfilling.

Traditionally, the worlds of counselling and psychotherapy have been considered somewhat separate, with counselling tending to cover short-term work aimed at tackling a specific issue or problem, and psychotherapy providing a more open-ended exploration of how we feel in the world.

Counselling can be the perfect solution if you have a specific issue, such as stress, panic or a problem at work, you would like to talk through with someone other than family members or friends. It can help clarify what the sticking points you feel are, and help identify new ways to go forward.

Because of its longer time frame, Psychotherapy provides an opportunity to be more exploratory and fluid, allowing us to think about your sense of self, how you feel you relate to others, think about your past, present and future and consider how different areas of your present life interact. This is particularly useful for more amorphous, longer-term or recurring issues.

In reality, there is often much crossover between these approaches and central to both is the quality of the relationship you forge with whoever you choose to be your therapist. When looking for a counsellor or therapist, do take some time to speak with a number of possible candidates to find a fit that works well for you.

Sessions

Sessions last 50 minutes and will usually take place weekly at the same time and place, however, I aim to be as flexible as possible to accommodate those with a more fluid schedule. I Ask for 24 hours notice for cancellations and ensure there are open slots available each week in case you need to change our session time.

Location

Currently, much of my work is online using Zoom, however, I am open to meeting on other platforms or by phone, if preferred. Where possible, I also offer Walk and Talk sessions in local open spaces such as Brockwell Park, and at the Brixton Therapy Centre, moments from Brixton Tube Station.

Fees

My fees range from £55 to £90, depending on time, location, and ability to pay.

If the cost is a factor preventing you from accessing therapy, please contact me to check availability and discuss rates.

Payment can be made by bank transfer or by online card payment.

Confidentiality

All the work we do together will remain confidential except in a few specific circumstances specified in the BACP ethical framework.

How will our sessions work?