If you’re new to this
If you’ve never been to a therapist before, it’s completely normal not to know what to expect — most people don’t, until they’ve done it.
Getting in touch first
You don’t need to explain everything, or even know exactly what’s wrong, before you call or email. A short conversation with me — usually a free 30-minute phone call — is the first step, just to see whether it feels like a good fit, for both of us. There’s no obligation on you to continue after that.
When you’re ready to go ahead, we’ll agree a time and date, often the same each week but I can be flexible. I’ll send you a copy of a written agreement between us, mainly about how we stay safe and including my confidentiality policy.
What a session actually involves
Sessions are a full hour, usually weekly to start with, either in person in Goxhill or online video. There’s no set script — we talk about whatever’s most present for you that day. You don’t need to have prepared anything. (In the first session, I’ll run through some basic process information with you and answer any questions you’ve come up with.)
A few things people often ask before their first session:
Is it normal to feel awkward, or not know what to say?
Yes, completely. Most people feel a bit self-conscious at first, especially in the first session or two. That eases, usually quickly, once it’s clear there’s no right or wrong way to do this.
What if it’s not the right fit?
That’s alright, and it happens. You’re not committing to anything long-term by having a first conversation or even a first session. You can stop – or pause sessions – at any time.
How long does therapy usually take?
There’s no fixed length — some people come for a few weeks, some for a few months, others longer. We’d talk about this as we go, and the pace is led by what you need, not a set programme.
Will you tell me what to do?
No — I don’t prescribe solutions or tell you what to do. I ask questions that help you find your own answers.
Is what I tell you confidential?
Yes. When we start working together I’ll send you a written agreement that covers this in full, including the rare situations where there are legal limits to confidentiality.
Do I need to be in crisis, or have a diagnosis, to come to therapy?
No. A lot of people come because something feels off, not because of a diagnosis or a crisis point. You don’t need a label for what’s going on before we start.
What if the issue I’m dealing with isn’t on your issues list?
Get in touch anyway — that list isn’t exhaustive, and we can talk about whether it’s a good fit.
Is online or phone therapy different to meeting in person?
The core of the work is the same — the difference is mostly practical: where you are, how we see each other, what’s convenient for you. We’d talk about which suits you best.
What’s the difference between counselling and psychotherapy?
Counselling tends to focus on a specific, often shorter-term concern; psychotherapy tends to work more broadly and over a longer period. In practice the two overlap a great deal — I trained first as a counsellor, then went on to qualify as a psychotherapist, and my work draws on both.
Is there an age range you work with?
Yes — I work with adults, with no upper age limit.
Where is the therapy room, and is there parking?
The therapy room is a separate, dedicated space in an annexe. Free parking is available next to the building.
What happens if I need to cancel a session?
If you need to cancel within 24 hours of your session, the fee is payable — unless we’re able to rearrange within five working days.
Ready to talk?
Get in touch and we’ll arrange your free initial call.
You can also check out my current availability here.