FAQ

Starting therapy can come with a lot of questions. I've answered some common queries below. However, if you still have some questions please don't hestitate to contact me via my contact page.

How long does treatment take?

To give a very rough average, NICE guidelines tend to recommend between 6 - 20 sessions for CBT. But this really depends on the individual, developmental age, the presenting problem/s, the severity of the problem/s and response to therapy. As part of the assessment process, this will give me some more clarity on how long treatment will take. Each session lasts 1 hour, and take place weekly or fortnightly.

What if CBT is not for me, and how would I know this?

CBT has a strong evidence base proven to help many people, but it is not a one-size fits all approach. During the initial assessment if I feel that CBT is not the appropriate treatment, or if the presenting problem is outside my area of expertise, I will signpost to more appropriate services.

We will review treatment regularly approximately every 4 sessions to ensure you feel you are getting the most out of therapy. I need you to let me know how you feel sessions are going, and to say if you don’t feel sessions are going well or you need more support. We can then problem solve what the barriers are, and rethink the plan. You are also not tied into any commitment you can end sessions at any time.

Is everything confidential?

Children and young people have the right for their therapy to be confidential from parents/carers if they wish, and preference of parental-involvement will be discussed in assessment.

The only time that confidentiality would be broken is if I had concerns that you or anyone else is at risk of harm. If this occurs, it will be discussed in session. I may have to request your consent to contact your GP or other services. In the event that you do not consent, I may still have to go ahead with this if you or someone else is at risk.

Therapy information and personal information are kept securely in line with GDPR regulations. Therapy information may only be shared with my supervisor, who is also BABCP accredited and who regularly reviews my practice, and this information is non-identifiable (would not include your personal details).

What is your cancellation policy?

If you have to cancel an appointment, please let me know with at least 24 hours' notice, and I can send you a full refund. Failure to provide 24 hours' notice will result in a full charge for the session.

If a health insurance company is paying for the treatment, they will have their own cancellation policy. Please familiarise yourself with your insurance companies’ policy regarding cancellations.