What happens in a first session?

So what happens next …

I know that starting therapy can feel daunting, so I like to keep the first steps simple and low-pressure. When you get in touch, I’ll offer a free 20-minute chat by phone or on Teams. This isn’t a formal assessment — it’s just an opportunity for us to talk about what’s bringing you to therapy, answer any questions you have, and see whether we feel like a good fit.

You’re welcome to share as much or as little as feels comfortable. I may ask a few gentle questions to help guide the conversation, such as what’s prompted you to reach out now, what you’d like support with, or whether you’ve had therapy before and how that experience was for you.I like to keep things as relaxed as possible when we first meet, no pressure to share your whole life story, fill out intensive questionnaires, or go through formal procedures. I often ask more detailed questions in the first session to help me get to know your current situation better, such as employment status, recent history, relationships and general health to ensure I can offer you the most appropriate support.

How much do you charge?

Sessions are £70 and each session lasts 50 minutes.

At each time I hold two slots for sliding scale clients, this could include students or lower income families. Please get in touch if you would like to discuss these options.

Do I have to commit to weekly?

While the traditional psychotherapy model often involves committing to weekly sessions, I understand that this doesn’t always fit with modern life — logistically or financially. That’s why I aim to make therapy as flexible and accessible as possible: if online works best for you, great; if in-person suits , that’s totally fine, or if you’d prefer a mix of both — why not!

My focus is on removing barriers to therapy, not creating them. The only thing I ask is that you come willing to engage in the co-creation of our work.

How does confidentiality work with my child or teen?

When working with under 16s, I follow the principle of Gillick competence, which is a legal framework that recognises a child under 16 can consent to their own psychological therapy if they have enough maturity, understanding, and intelligence to fully grasp what the process involves and what it means for them. I assess their capacity to make this decision as part of our first session together, taking into account other professional diagnosis and support already in place.

Children and young people aged 16–17 who are assessed as Gillick competent can also access therapy without parental knowledge or consent.

While parents often make it possible for their child or teen to access therapy financially and logistically, they are not automatically entitled to know what is shared in sessions. Therapy provides a confidential and safe space for your child or teen to express their thoughts and feelings, just as an adult would expect in their own therapy.

At the same time, I understand how important it is for parents to feel reassured and supported, and to know how they can best help their child. To balance confidentiality with parental involvement, I offer a clear process:

• At the start of therapy, I create a contract with your child or teen which outlines how and when communication with parents or carers will happen and what can be shared.

• We can agree on regular check-ins or review meetings if appropriate. These give parents an opportunity to ask questions, share observations, and hear about general progress without breaching the young person’s confidentiality.

• I also offer guidance and psychoeducation resources for parents or carers to help them understand and support the emotional journey their child or teen is on.

• Any concerns that your child or teen may be at risk of harming themselves, harming someone else, or being harmed by others will be shared immediately with the appropriate professional agencies and, where appropriate, with parents or carers.

Can you help placement students?

Due to protecting the confidentiality of clients, I am unable to provide placement opportunities for students. Although I am passionate about supporting the next generation of psychotherapists and happy to provide a free of charge 30 minute online chat to help guide you in the next steps of your career choices.

How is my data protected?

I am fully compliant with GDPR and ICO registration.