FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to have a diagnosis to start therapy? No. 1 in 4 adults in England experience a mental health problem each year [Mind, 2023], but many never get a formal diagnosis. People often come because something doesn't feel right, even if they can't name it. You don't need the right words that's part of what we figure out together. How long will I need therapy? It depends on what you bring. NHS data shows average counselling is 8-12 sessions, but trauma and long-standing patterns often need longer. We review regularly and you decide. There is no minimum commitment. Do you only work with men? No my practice is open to all adults. I have a particular interest in men's mental health because 75% of suicides in the UK are men [ONS, 2023] and men are 3x less likely to seek help than women [BACP, 2022]. I also work with veterans, military and frontline staff groups where PTSD rates are up to 5x higher than the general population. What happens in the free 20-minute call? A brief, no-pressure chat. 40% of people say they don't seek therapy because they don't know what to expect [BACP Public Perceptions Survey]. This call fixes that you ask how I work, I ask what brings you here, and we both see if we feel like a good fit. What is the difference between £60 counselling and £85 trauma therapy? Individual counselling (50 mins / £60) is weekly talking therapy. Trauma therapy (90 mins / £85) is extended sessions using a phased approach. Around 1 in 3 people will experience PTSD at some point [PTSD UK], and trauma often needs longer sessions for safety and processing. We discuss which is right for you in the initial call. Are sessions online or face to face? Currently online UK-wide via secure video 85% of clients now choose online and outcomes are equal to face-to-face [BACP, 2023]. Home visits within 20 miles of Pontefract available session fee plus 55p per mile. Is everything confidential? Yes, with legal and safety limits. BACP requires breaking confidentiality only where there is serious risk of harm, safeguarding concerns, or legal duty. Where possible I discuss it with you first. Do you take notes? Brief, anonymised notes stored securely encrypted. No transcripts. Kept 7 years after therapy ends per BACP guidance and insurance. What about imposter feelings? Very common. Original research found 70% of people experience imposter feelings at some point [Gravois, 2007], and my own postgraduate research presented at the 32nd International BACP Conference focused on imposter experiences in trainee therapists. You are not alone in feeling like a fraud. Do you offer low-cost spaces? Yes limited £45 concession for military, veterans & frontline services. Frontline staff have 2-3x higher rates of anxiety and burnout [NHS Staff Survey 2023]. Please ask about availability. What if I need to cancel? 24-hour cancellation policy full fee charged if less than 24 hours notice, including home visits. This protects limited spaces. How do I pay? Bank transfer 24 hours before session. What if I am in crisis? I am not a crisis service. If you need urgent support: Samaritans 116 123 (free 24/7) Text SHOUT to 85258 Emergency 999 In 2023, Samaritans responded to over 500,000 contacts you don't have to cope alone.