Why have therapy?

Therapy offers a safe, confidential space to explore your thoughts and emotions. My role is to help you make sense of your feelings and navigate the challenges you face with greater clarity and confidence. My work is structured on a weekly-slot basis, and this rhythm of regular meetings provides the foundation for deeper reflection and growth.

Some of the reasons people come to therapy are anxiety, overthinking, work stress, depression, family or relationship difficulties, past or present abuse, burnout, overwhelm, challenges related to being neurodiverse, loneliness, low self-esteem, physical illness, or issues related to ageing.

However, you don’t need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. Many people come because they feel stuck, uncertain, or want to understand themselves better. Whatever you bring, a gentle exploration of the issues usually reveals a deeper picture that helps you to make sense of what is happening.

Sessions are usually a conversation, though I may occasionally suggest an exercise to help you explore things from a new perspective. You always have control over what happens, and nothing is ever forced on you.

What should I expect when starting therapy?

Choosing to begin counselling or psychotherapy is often a significant step. If it would be helpful, you’re welcome to request a brief, no-obligation call before we start. This offers an opportunity to ask any questions you may have and gives me a sense of how I might support you. If it feels like a good fit on both sides, we can then arrange an initial session.

Our initial session is an opportunity to get to know each other more. We’ll explore what’s brought you to therapy, any relevant life experiences, and what you hope to gain. There’s no pressure to continue, and you should feel comfortable and ready before deciding whether to proceed. If I think another therapist might be better suited to help you, I’ll be honest about that and recommend someone more appropriate.

We usually begin with six sessions, after which we review our progress and decide on the best way forward. Therapy can be brief, medium‑term, or long‑term, whatever feels most appropriate for you. I often recommend longer‑term work to allow for deeper exploration and lasting change, but I’m equally happy to offer shorter‑term therapy when that best meets your needs.

To book a free conversation or an initial session, please contact me here

How does therapy work?

The relationship between therapist and client – known as the therapeutic relationship – plays a crucial role in the effectiveness of therapy. Whichever therapist you choose, it’s important you feel comfortable, understood, and safe. Professional boundaries help maintain confidentiality and create a space that is warm, respectful, and compassionate, allowing you to explore even the most difficult issues.

Much of what shapes our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours lies outside our immediate awareness. We don’t always know why we do what we do, or what our feelings mean. Therapy provides the opportunity to reflect, bringing some of these hidden patterns into focus. This helps us make sense of our feelings and empowers us to make better choices.

Research shows that talking therapies are effective for depression, anxiety, and stress-related difficulties. Psychotherapy has been found to set in motion lasting psychological change, with benefits continuing even after therapy has ended (Shedler, American Psychologist Journal, 2010).

“Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate”
Carl Jung