FAQ's

Ask Val

How long will it take?

In terms of the complete period of therapy, this varies depending on the individual or couple and the issues presented. We work this out in the first few sessions. For some long-term therapy works best and if that’s right for you we will review every few months to see how things are going. For others, short-term therapy provides support through a particular issue or during a difficult period. Individual sessions last for 50 minutes and typically happen once a week.

Is Psychotherapy right for me?

During the first few sessions we will explore what is best for you moving forward. We'll look at how ready you are for the process and what kind of therapy might best suit your needs. Weekly sessions at the same time and on the same day works best for stability.

How do I know if you're the right therapist for me?

It's really important that you feel comfortable working with me.. or with any therapist. My suggestion is to trust your gut instinct and how you feel by the end of the first session. I want you to feel comfortable with me so that you get the most out of your experience of therapy. I encourage you to express any queries or concerns as it's good to for you to know if I'm the right therapist for you and that you're ready to do the work. 

Is what I say confidential?

Everything you share with me is confidential. The only time I may break confidentiality is if I have reason to believe you may be intending to harm yourself or others or if I'm required to as part of a criminal investigation. Most good therapists have a supervisor with whom issues can be discussed but full names are not disclosed in order to protect client confidentiality. The purpose of supervision is to maintain the best therapeutic service.

What happens during a typical session?

Sessions last for 50 minutes and all you need to do is bringing yourself and whatever is going on for you. My job is to manage the sessions and help you explore different aspects of what might be going on. Sometimes we may stay focused on a particular issue whilst at other times we'll explore other challenges that may be coming up in your life from week to week.

What is your psychological model or approach?

I am trained as an integrative psychotherapist. The integrative part means that I use a variety of models depending on your needs, which may include psychodynamic (family and childhood), person-centered (forms the basis of all counselling), transactional analysis (relational), gestalt (creative) and Eye Movement, Desensitisation & Reprocessing (EMDR) Post Traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

How much does it cost and how do I pay?

Individual sessions are £50  Sessions for couples are £60. Concessions also available. Payment is made via cash or cheque and paid at the beginning of the session. This may be subject to change.


Is there a contract?

At the beginning of our work together I will give you and 'agreement' rather than a contract. This outlines confidentiality, cancellation, terms and conditions. The agreement is something that sets the boundaries and we discuss this together until we reach a mutual agreement that works for both of us.

What is the best thing about psychotherapy?

One of the best things about having therapy is the space and time to talk about ourselves. How often do we get a chance to do this without interruptions, opinions, disagreements or conflict? There is something wonderful about having someone sit and listen and reflect on our lives in ways that we might not otherwise be able to see or understand.Talking to someone who is completely focused on us for that period of time is incredibly healing. To feel that we've been truly heard and understood is a unique experience.