Is psychological therapy for me?
It’s often when our thoughts, feelings, or behaviours start to feel out of balance that we realise we might need some professional support.
It’s common to wonder whether your problems are “serious enough” to see a therapist—but the truth is, if something is bothering you, that’s reason enough. Your experiences and struggles are valid. There’s no “right” time to start therapy—it can be helpful at any stage, whether you’re in crisis or simply wanting to understand yourself better. Talking things through with a professional in a safe, supportive space can really help. Therapy doesn’t have to be long-term—you’re in control of how many sessions you have, and it’s okay to start small.
What’s the difference between a clinical psychologist and a counsellor?
Clinical Psychologists are highly trained professionals with a deep understanding of how the mind works. They use well-established psychological theories to get a full picture of what someone is going through, and therapy is guided by this in-depth understanding. Becoming a Clinical Psychologist involves at least seven years of training, and they’re qualified to work with people experiencing mild to highly complex mental health challenges. Clinical psychologists are regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council.
Counsellors are trained in various therapeutic approaches, and the length of their training can vary. Counselling offers a safe, supportive space to talk through life’s challenges—whether current or from the past. The title of counsellor is not protected so anyone can call themselves a counsellor, they are not all regulated by one specific body
No matter who you choose to work with, it’s always a good idea to check that your therapist is properly qualified and registered with a recognised professional organisation.
What happens during psychological therapy?
In therapy, you’ll have a safe and supportive space to talk about what’s on your mind. Your therapist will listen and help you better understand your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Together, you’ll work through any challenges you're facing and find practical ways to feel better. Therapy is all about you—you’re in control of what you share and how we move forward, at a pace that feels right for you.
Psychological therapy is a collaborative effort, where you and your therapist will work together to understand your current challenges. The process generally involves three key stages:
Assessment – This is where you and your therapist gather information about what’s going on for you right now, as well as aspects of your life that might be relevant. It’s also the time to get to know each other and create a comfortable, safe space for our work together.
Formulation – Here I will use psychological models to better understand your difficulties. We’ll explore how these challenges have developed over time and what might be keeping them present or making them worse right now.
Treatment – Based on the understanding we’ve built together, we will develop a personalized treatment plan, setting clear goals and practical steps. This may include learning new skills or trying out new behaviors to help you move forward.
How long will therapy last?
Each session lasts approximately 50-55 minutes. The number of appointments if flexible and will likely depend on what we both feel is needed, the nature of your difficulties and the progress you make.
Can I talk to you on the phone?
Yes, if you would like a 10-15 minute phone call (free of charge), you can arrange this via the contact page.
I have other questions…
Feel free to contact me to discuss