FAQ's 

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What is integrative psychotherapy?

It means I don’t work from one rigid method. I draw on approaches including CBT, person-centred therapy, attachment-based work and trauma-informed practice, and shape our sessions around you. Some sessions may focus on understanding patterns, some on practical tools, and some may simply be space to feel heard.

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I’ve tried therapy before and it didn’t help. Is it worth trying again?

It might be. Therapy is not one-size-fits-all, and a lot depends on the fit and the way of working. If something didn’t work before, I’d like to hear what that was, so we can do things differently. You’re welcome to tell me what you do and don’t want.

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Can I arrange therapy for my son or daughter, or someone I care about?

If they are 16 or over, they are welcome to work with me. I work with individuals only, so I speak directly with the person who would be coming to therapy, and parents, family members and friends can’t arrange sessions on their behalf.

This protects their privacy and their autonomy. Therapy works best when someone feels ready and wants to be there, so I ask that they contact me themselves using the form on this page.

You are very welcome to get in touch with any questions about how I work, and I’ll happily answer what I can.

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Do I need a diagnosis to start therapy?

No. Whether you have a formal diagnosis, are waiting for an assessment, or simply recognise yourself in the language of neurodiversity or mental health struggles, you are welcome here. You also don’t need to arrive knowing what you want from therapy.

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I don’t feel bad enough to deserve therapy. Is that a real thing?

It’s a very common worry, and the answer is no. You don’t need to be in crisis, or struggling more than anyone else, to deserve support. If something feels heavy, tiring or stuck, that is reason enough to come.

 

What if I freeze up or can’t find the words?

That’s okay, and it happens more often than you might think. Some people find it hard to put feelings into words, or go blank when put on the spot. We can go slowly, leave silences, or find other ways in. You don’t have to say the right thing.

 

I’m not sure if I have ADHD, Autism or a different neurodiversity. Can we explore that?

Yes. You don’t need an answer before you start. We can talk through the things that have made you wonder, and what they mean for your life. I don’t offer diagnostic assessments, so if you want a formal one, I can talk through what that might involve and support you while you decide.

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I’ve been masking for so long I’m not sure who I am underneath. Can therapy help?

This is something many neurodivergent people bring, and it is okay if you can’t name it yet. Therapy can be a place to slowly notice what is you and what is performance, at a pace that feels manageable. You don’t have to drop the mask all at once, or at all, in sessions.

 

How much do sessions cost?

Sessions are 50 minutes and the standard rate is £60. Reduced rates of £50 are available for students, teachers and NHS employees, and £45 for trainee counsellors and psychotherapists, with evidence of status required. The same rates apply to single sessions, open-ended therapy or a course of sessions.

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Is online therapy as effective as face to face?

For many people, research suggests it can work just as well, and some find it easier to talk from a familiar space. It isn’t right for everyone, though, so if you’re unsure we can talk through which feels better for you. I offer online sessions across the UK and face to face sessions in Derby.

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What happens in the first session?

There’s no pressure to have it all figured out. We’ll talk about what brings you to therapy, what you’d like from it, and whether we feel like a good fit. You set the pace.

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How long will I need therapy for?

There is no set path. Some people come for a few sessions to work through something specific, while others prefer longer-term work. We’ll review how it feels as we go.

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What do I need for an online session?

A private, comfortable space, a device with a camera and microphone, and a stable internet connection. If anything about the setup feels tricky, just let me know and we can work it out together.

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Will you try to fix me?

No. For me, therapy is not about fixing what is broken. It’s about understanding yourself more fully, reconnecting with your strengths, and building a life that feels more authentic and sustainable.

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Is what I say private?

Yes. What you share with me is confidential, and my practice is registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office. There are some limits, for example if someone is at risk of serious harm, and I’ll explain these clearly before we begin so there are no surprises.

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How will I know if you’re the right therapist for me?

Mostly by how it feels. You should feel understood, accepted and able to be yourself. It’s perfectly fine to take a session or two to decide, and to tell me if it isn’t clicking.

 

How do I get started?

Fill in the “Let’s Work Together” form on this page with a few words about what you’re looking for, and I’ll get back to you. There’s no need to explain everything at this stage.