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The therapeutic relationship

 

I hold a strong belief that the therapeutic relationship is of paramount importance to how a person experiences therapy. Over the years much research has been conducted on the impact of the therapeutic relationship on clients and some studies have even revealed it to be the most important common factor to successful outcomes. This is the reason why I offer an initial  free assessment appointment when you first make contact.

Questions you may find yourself asking........

What happens when I make contact?

 

If you decide to make contact we will arrange a mutually convenient appointment for us to meet each other and for us to think together about your needs. During this session we both have the opportunity to decide if I am the therapist to help you.

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If at the end of the first session you decide that you want to continue with me we can arrange future appointments at a mutually convenient time. You have no obligation to continue with me after the first session and if you decide not to continue I can signpost you to other therapists who may be able to help you. Likewise, if I feel that I cannot offer the help I believe you need, I will be honest with you and signpost you to other therapists who I feel may be better equipped to help you.

How many sessions will I need?

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It would be unfair to state a number of sessions because this is dependent upon your individual needs, how you adapt to therapy and the issues you bring. As a general guide I offer short term counselling (around 6 sessions) where our work would have a specific goal orientated focus and I also offer more open-ended long term psychotherapy for those who need to explore further and deeper into their issues or present with more complex needs. Sometimes clients may present with one issue and during the course of therapy other issues emerge which need addressing. However, ultimately you have the right and control to stop therapy whenever you wish, although it is often more beneficial to agree and work towards an ending to therapy together.

How long do the sessions last?

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Counselling and psychotherapy sessions both last 50 minutes, which is known as a therapeutic hour.

Why 50 minute sessions?

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Sigmund Freud was the instigator of the 50 minute therapy session over one hundred years ago. The reasons behind this may seem quite obvious; one hour is a convenient unit of time allowing for clients to resume their own activities and for the therapist to write up their notes and get ready for the next client; but this is not all. Sharing pressing issues with another person can give rise to difficult and painful emotions. As therapist and client explore and travel the client’s painful journey, the time limit is a reassurance that the painful journey will soon be over and this can offer the client a sense of control over how much they wish to bring into the room today and for how long.

Will you offer advice?

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No. Counselling holds the belief that the client knows best and psychological therapy is predominantly client led. As your counsellor my role is not to advise you, tell you what to do or judge you in any way. I am here to help you explore your own issues, reach your own conclusions, set your own goals and help you to make your own decisions in your own way. It is only you who knows how you feel at any moment in time and I will work with you to help you understand your own thoughts and feelings and reach your own conclusions about moving forward with the rest of your life.

How and when do I pay?

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Payment may be made by cash, cheque or any major credit and debit card and is payable at the end of your therapy session.

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