What to expect
Starting therapy can feel daunting, especially if you've never done it before. Here's what the process actually looks like, from first contact to regular sessions.
The first step is simply getting in touch. You can send me an email or use the contact form on this site. You don't need to explain everything in your first message. Just let me know you're interested and I'll get back to you.
There's no pressure and no obligation at this stage. Some people know exactly what they want from therapy, and others aren't sure yet. Both are fine. We can have an initial conversation to see whether working together feels like the right fit.
Your first session is a chance for us to meet and for you to get a feel for what therapy with me might be like. I'll ask a bit about what's brought you to therapy and what you're hoping for, but there's no set format and you won't be expected to share anything you're not ready to talk about.
It's completely normal to feel nervous before your first session. Most people do. The room is quiet and private, and everything you say is confidential.
This first meeting is as much for you as it is for me. It's important that you feel comfortable with your therapist, and I'd encourage you to take your time deciding whether it's the right fit. There's no obligation to continue after the first session.
Sessions are 50 minutes long and take place once a week, on the same day and at the same time. That regularity matters. It creates a consistent, dependable space that you can rely on.
There's no agenda and no homework. You're free to talk about whatever feels important in that moment, whether it's something that happened during the week, a thought you can't shake, or a feeling you don't fully understand.
Over time, patterns often start to emerge. You might notice connections between how you feel now and experiences from earlier in your life. That's where the real work happens, and it's something that unfolds naturally rather than being forced.
Everything you share in therapy is confidential. I work within the BACP Ethical Framework, which sets clear standards for confidentiality and ethical practice.
In rare circumstances, I may need to break confidentiality, for example if I believe there is a serious risk of harm to you or someone else. If this were ever to happen, I would aim to discuss it with you first. I'll explain my confidentiality policy fully before we begin working together, so you know exactly where you stand.
Where: Sessions take place in person at Manor Drive Medical Centre, Worcester Park, KT4 7LG.
When: Appointments are available on weekdays. We'll find a regular time that works for you.
How long: Each session lasts 50 minutes.
How often: Sessions are weekly, on the same day and at the same time each week.
Ready to get started?
Or not quite ready, but thinking about it? Either way, I'm happy to hear from you. A quick email or message is all it takes.