FAQ

 

I have endeavoured to answer those that occur frequently during my work if you do have any other questions please ask me.

What is the difference between Counselling and Psychotherapy? How do I know what I need?

Counselling and some types of therapy deal with issues that can be processed in a limited number of sessions and by using focussed attention. 

Psychotherapy usually requires longer term and more in-depth therapy.  I like to use a story Berne, the founding father of TA’s story to clarify this.

Removing the Splinter by Eric Berne

A man got a splinter in his big toe, soon the toe became infected and the man began to limp. To compensate for the limp the man tightened his leg and back muscles. As the tension spread to his neck he developed a headache. Meantime he developed a temperature as a result of the infected toe.  The man went to the GP who looked over him and said he had a serious condition since his whole body was involved.  The GP said he would probably be able to cure him though it could not be guaranteed.

The man went for a second opinion this time the GP found the splinter and removed it. The fever stopped the pulse slowed the head and neck relax and within 48 hours the guy is back to normal.

So what is the point of the story? Psychotherapy looks for the root of the cause and works with the client to resolve the issue at the root rather than treating the symptoms. I am not suggesting that it will be as quick as 48 hours like in the story

What can you help me with?

Sometimes clients come into therapy with specific issues some of which are listed below. Usually when the symptoms become an issue or concern on everyday living.

• Addiction

Anxiety

•Anger Management
•Bereavement – covering loss of:-   partner, parents, relatives, friends, miscarriage, abortion, stillbirth.
•Pregnancy post previous baby loss
•Career
•Childhood trauma – physical, emotional or sexual abuse
•Couples
•Depression
•Disturbed family background
•Loss of job, home or major change in life
•Low Self –Esteem
•Mid life crisis
•OCD
•Panic
•Phobias
•Relationship changes - marriage, divorce
•Relationship choices - choosing better partners, dating
•Relationship difficulties- loneliness, jealousy, arguments, pre-marriage problems, friendship problems
•Self Confidence
•Self-Esteem
•Sexual Abuse
•Sexual orientation
•Stress
•Social Anxiety
•Stress Management

Please, if the issue you are facing is not listed above feel free to ask us if we can help. If we cannot we may be able to recommend someone who can.

Other clients seek therapy for self- fulfilment, understanding and inner contentment.

What happens in a session? 

Sessions usually last for an hour and usually occur every week, the number of sessions will vary but will always be discussed and agreed. During this time we will explore whatever you are bringing to the session. This is your time and space, it is confidential, safe, secure and non-judgemental.. How you have been shaped by past events and its impact on you today will be discussed as this will help identify the root of the behaviours feelings habits.  I will use questioning techniques to guide the conversation if required. We will then look at options for change and agree which is a best fit for you to help you achieve the changes or deal with the problems you are facing.

Confidentiality is key to the work I do and I am governed by the rules of the bodies of which I am a member. The only time confidentiality would be broken is in the exceptional circumstances of me considering there is a serious at risk of you harming yourself, harming another person or if a child is at risk of being harmed. In such instances I will make every effort to discuss the situation with you first but if that was not possible, I would consider contacting relevant services e.g. your GP or emergency services.

Supervision.  It is a requirement of excellence and good ethical practice that all therapists discuss their work with a supervisor. Personal details are not revealed to the supervisor and they too are bound by the same confidentiality regulations

What is your role as a therapist?

My role, I consider as a privilege. I hold the belief that through working with clients I can help them achieve to live the life they desire rather than that influenced and controlled by the past. I identify unconscious behaviours and patterns that influence their decisions and choices. 
I contract with you on what we will cover within the session and bring an array of techniques and tools for us to explore whilst you journey to you goals to supportive healing and self-exploration
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Why do you use TA?

TA can be applied outside of the therapy room to a variety of problems, the basic premises are simple to understand and I love the “Ah ha “moment when my client connects with the premises of this type of therapy. It is applied in business, education, parenting, coaching. It is applicable wherever we come into contact and communication with others. It is particularly helpful in area of dispute and misunderstanding.
Developing an awareness of TA can promote self-awareness, personal reflection, improve communication and help remove reactive unhelpful thoughts, feelings and actions. For these reasons it is particularly suitable for couples and family conflicts

How many sessions will I need?

This is affected by the depth of change required, the length of time the issue has been present and your current confidence state. I usually contract for 12 for the short term till we identify what you are seeking to deal with

How do I pay for a therapy session?

On your first session a full contract and terms and conditions will be discussed with you and this will set out payment types and due date. Typically sessions are paid for in advance by either cash or online banking.