After receiving an initial call or email, I aim to respond within 24 hours and normally suggest booking a short phone conversation to discuss your needs and availability. I then offer an initial assessment over one or two 50-minute assessment sessions in which we think together about your difficulties and the kind of help most suited to your needs. If I feel a different approach might be more helpful for you I will recommend that. Once you decide to proceed with therapy we agree on a day and time for sessions and decide whether we shall see each other in person or online.

Regular sessions last 50 minutes and the frame provided by the setting, time and frequency of appointments constitute a crucial element of the work.

Online sessions
I started offering online sessions during the Covid pandemic, and I have found that some people prefer this way of working, particularly if they live too far away, travel frequently for work or have difficulty leaving the house. Although it differs in a number of respects from in person therapy, it can still be very helpful. It is most effective if you can put the following in place:

• Privacy: a private space where you feel free to speak without being interrupted or overheard. It is important to let other people know you are unavailable during your session.
• Safe, comfortable space: just as with in person therapy it is helpful to have your remote sessions in a space where you feel comfortable and safe, and if possible in the same space each time. Try to ensure you’re sitting on a comfortable chair, with a box of tissues and a glass of water.
• Turn off all devices: it is recommended you turn off all electronic devices and remove distractions so you can focus on the session.
• Time before and after each session: If possible try not to go straight from work or another activity into the session, and try to give yourself 15 minutes or so afterwards to reflect and settle yourself before rushing onto something else.