ANY QUESTIONS?

What is the difference between counselling and psychotherapy?

There is actually very little difference between counselling and psychotherapy.  They are often seen as interchangeable and overlap in many ways.  The main difference is the duration of the process.  Typically, counselling tends to be shorter-term, whereas psychotherapy is longer-term. 

What is ‘psychodynamic’ therapy?

“Psycho” refers to the mind, and “dynamic” refers to the dynamic between our unconscious minds and how they impact our conscious behaviour; or to put it another way, how our past may still be impacting our thoughts and feelings in the present.

While some therapies focus on ‘how’ to address blocks and solve problems, psychodynamic therapy concentrates on the question why… “Why do I feel like this?” “Why do I keep having these same problems?!” Through the process of examining why, we can gain greater understanding of the different aspects of ourselves and improved self-knowledge which can offer welcome relief and the possibility of change.

What can I expect from the first meeting?

The very first session will be an initial consultation and will last between 50-60 minutes. During this time, we will get a sense of each other and you can tell me all about yourself and why you’re seeking counselling at this time. You can also ask any questions you may have about the counselling process. If, at the end of this meeting, you would like to proceed with further sessions, we will then set the day, time and cost of our future meetings.

What about the other sessions?

If, after the initial consultation, you decide to proceed with regular sessions, each session will be 50 minutes in length and will usually take place on a weekly basis. This is your time, so sessions are client led and will focus on whatever is on your mind that week.

During our discussions together, I will assume the position of a trained ‘co-explorer’ of what is going on for you. No one is more of an expert on you than you are, but I may help to understand what is just out of sight, or bring your attention to recurring patterns of behaviour, forming links between seemingly disparate areas of your life. I won’t tell you what to do but instead will help you towards making the right life choices for you. Ultimately, my aim is to make myself redundant in your life!

Do sessions have to be weekly?

No.  Some clients prefer fortnightly sessions, maybe for reasons relating to finance or time restraints.  The frequency of sessions is something that we can agree on when we first meet.  In some cases, it may be beneficial to start with weekly sessions to get to know each other and so that the work can “get going” without any interruption. 

Are our sessions confidential?

Absolutely. I am bound by the ethical standards of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy). As such, I am required to attend regular supervision sessions with a qualified professional and may discuss our work together in this context, though your identity will not be disclosed.

In accordance with the BACP Ethical Framework for Good Practice in Counselling and Psychotherapy, I may be required to break our confidentiality agreement in the event that your life, or the life of someone else is in imminent danger.

What is registration with a professional body?

I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).  Being registered with the BACP means that I have achieved a substantial level of training and experience, which has been approved by this professional body.  I am also bound by their code of ethics for good practice in counselling.  Please refer to www.bacp.co.uk for further information. 

Do you offer Couples Therapy?

Yes, couples therapy is a large part of my work.  Couples come to therapy for a variety of reasons at different stages in their relationship. Some start therapy because they notice unhelpful patterns emerging which hold them stuck in the same argument over and over again. Other couples come to therapy to help them prepare for a big life change – such as getting married, becoming parents or the children leaving home – and want to navigate that change in the best possible way.  Other couples come to therapy because they are at ‘breaking point’ – by which time it can sometimes be too late. I offer therapy for couples at every relationship stage, including those who just want to prevent any relationship problems.  

If you have concerns about a particular relationship or would just like to bomb-proof a great relationship you already have, then please contact me for more information. 

What are your fees?

Individual 50 minute sessions are £60.
Couples Counselling 50 minute sessions are £80.

How do I start?

To begin the process, simply drop me an email to info@betterpathcounselling.co.uk, telling me a little bit about yourself and why you are seeking counselling I will respond within two days and invite you for an initial online consultation.

Sessions are usually held on Zoom, which is a video messaging system that is free and GDPR compliant.