Frequently Asked Questions
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So long as you’re a UK resident, it’s not a problem. We can have appointments via remote video call.
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Sometimes people have clear goals they would like to work on, which can help give us a focus for therapy. It is also possible to develop goals as we get to know each other over the sessions. Others, however, prefer to have more unstructured, exploratory sessions.
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Qualifying as a Clinical Psychologist involves study up to doctorate level. Clinical Psychologist are trained by the NHS; this involves a combination of both academic study and clinical experience across a range of NHS services.
We are trained to assess and work with people who are experiencing physical and/or emotional health difficulties. We are also trained in a number of psychological therapy approaches (talking therapies), which means we can draw on these to tailor therapy to your specific needs.
Note: The term ‘Clinical Psychologist’ is a legally protected title for someone who has completed doctoral level training and is fully registered with the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC). The term ‘psychologist’ is not a legally protected title. When looking for a therapist, it is crucial to research the qualifications, experience and their registration before commencing therapy. You can check the HCPC register here.
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The first few appointments will be an 'assessment phase'. This is a chance for you to share your story about what has brought you to therapy. Here, I will ask you questions about what you are struggling with and some other questions about your life. We can then discuss a suitable treatment approach and how we might be able to work together.
In terms of what the therapy sessions will be like, this really depends. I can draw on evidence-based psychological approaches to help you to achieve your goals.
Assessment and therapy sessions are 50 minutes.
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Any therapy session that takes place either telephone or a video calling software such as Google Meet, Zoom, Skype, Microsoft Teams etc. I tend to use Google Meet.
Remote therapy can be good for those who live far away from my clinic, have a busy work schedule or if you have a health issue (physical or emotional) which means it is difficult to leave home. Remote therapy also means you can work with a professional who is a specialist in your area of difficulty, rather than simply choosing a therapist based on them being local to you.
Recent research suggests that remote therapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy.
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Yes - the only exception if I am concerned about the safety of you or someone else. In this case, I am legally obliged to share relevant information with third parties such as your GP and other relevant NHS services.
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It is common for people to feel unsure, daunted or nervous about sessions, especially if you have not had therapy before. Leave this with me - I am skilled in making sure you can feel as comfortable as possible to be able to talk about your difficulties.
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I only draw on contemporary psychological therapies that are proven to be effective. These include:
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT)
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
Mindfulness
Want to know more? Read my guide on this topic here
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I can offer both time-limited (e.g. 6-12 sessions) and open ended therapy. This depends on your preference and goals.
Initially, I often suggest it is helpful to have weekly sessions. Then we can decide together if you would like to space sessions out e.g. every other week. After the main therapy phase has completed, some clients like to have ‘check in’ sessions every 4-6 weeks.
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During our work, I make time for you to discuss how you feel our work is going or if you would like more emphasis on certain aspects. This is your time - it is important it works for you.
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I accept insurance from most major private medical companies.
For most cases, you will need to pay for my services (by a secure online payment portal after each appointment) and then you reclaim the cost from your insurer.
It is your responsibility to ensure that your treatment is authorised by your insurer (check the terms of your policy and level of cover). I recommend checking with them prior to booking and attending your initial appointment.
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Having completed doctoral training, Clinical Psychologists are highly trained. The time it takes to qualify as a Clinical psychologist often takes a minimum of 9 years.
Clinical Psychologists are trained in several therapeutic approaches (as well as doctoral level research). This means that we can provide you with a personalised, tailor made treatment approach.
Click here to read my guide about the main differences between certain mental health professionals.
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You can contact me by completing this form
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I have a new dedicated therapy space in Hatfield, Hertfordshire (near the Hatfield Business Park and University of Hertfordshire).
I offer remote therapy as well as in person therapy.