What happens during the initial therapy session?
Your first session with me will be relaxed and informal. You will be invited to talk about whatever it is you would like help with, raise any concerns and ask as many questions as you wish. The aim of this session is to provide you with a safe space to talk and to provide enough information for you to make an informed decision about whether Sex/Relationship therapy is suitable for you and whether I am the right therapist for you. Any information gathered at this session will form the start of the assessment process should you decide to engage in a course of therapy.
How long does therapy take?
There is no hard and fast rule to know how long therapy will take as it is entirely dependent upon the individual/couple. However, in therapy terms, this type of work would be classed as short term and solution focused. Therefore, you would expect the duration to be weeks/months and not years.
The initial consultation/assessment takes on average 2-3 sessions for an individual and 4-5 sessions for a couple. The information/history gathering part of the process is vital to build a bespoke treatment plan for the most effective outcome.
Do I have to have an assessment, or can I go straight into therapy?
Every client I see goes through the same assessment process, which allows me to gather information about them. It is essential for building a successful treatment plan. Much enlightenment and reflection can come from the assessment process as you talk openly about your past experiences, current situation and future goals. So, it’s all therapy!
Do I get a diagnosis?
At the end of the assessment process I will provide you with my findings together with a treatment plan. At this stage we can move on to further therapy sessions, but there is no obligation to continue with work with me at any stage.
Can the session be carried out via Skype?
My own experience and research have shown that face to face, in person therapy sessions have an advantage over video call sessions. Something may get lost in translation, like body language, movement, expressions and tone. In addition, internet connections aren’t always reliable. However, some therapy is better than no therapy, and where there is a will there is a way so, if it’s the only option open to you, let’s talk about it. Please contact me to discuss sessions via Skype, Zoom or VSee.
Is what I say confidential?
I understand that discussions in our sessions are of a highly personal nature and our work together will remain confidential, however, there are some exceptions to confidentiality. I may be required to disclose information, in exceptional circumstances, should I become aware of any danger or risk of harm to yourself or someone else or should I become aware of an illegal act. I would discuss my obligation to disclose the information to the relevant authority, should this situation arise.
Is there a risk of my personal information and our discussions being accessed maliciously?
Your data and information will always be stored safely on a device that is encrypted and password protected. Your information will not be shared with any third parties, unless you have given consent or there is a public safety or legal obligation for me to do so.
Do you work to a code of ethics?
I am a member of several professional bodies and I am bound to adhere to their codes of ethics and professional standards. These include the College of Sexual & Relationship Therapists (COSRT), British Association of Counsellors & Psychotherapists (BACP) and National Council of Psychotherapists (NCP).