Frequently Asked Questions About Therapy
Everything You Need to Know Before Starting Your Therapeutic Journey
This page includes the key details people want before they begin therapy sessions. I hope it provides all the information you need, but please contact me if you have any questions. Many people have similar questions before they start therapy, so I've listed the most popular ones below to help you find out how I work. Click on the question to see the answer.
Getting Started with Therapy
How do I know you are the right therapist for me?
To make sure that I am the right therapist in Surrey for you and to ensure that you are ready to start the therapy process, all clients are offered a free 15-minute telephone consultation. During the free consultation, we will briefly discuss what you are seeking help with, how I can help, any questions you have regarding therapy and what commitment is needed to ensure that you get the most out of your sessions.
Do you work with adults and children?
I work with individuals, couples, families and groups from a wide range of backgrounds, cultures and ages, including young children, teenagers, young adults, those going through middle age and adults in their senior years. I am here to support people at all stages of life. I can work with children from age 11 upwards if they can express themselves either verbally or with the assistance of therapeutic drawing using colouring pens and pencils, which I provide.
Session Information
How long do therapy sessions last?
Each counselling session lasts 50 minutes; however, couples, groups and families often require longer sessions, which can be arranged. Extended sessions to deal with acute personal issues are available by negotiation.
Can you contact me on a messaging app?
Once we have agreed to work together, I will ask that you let me know your preferred contact method so that I know to always use this as the first way to try and reach you. I am happy to contact clients via phone call, email and SMS but can also use WhatsApp and other internet messaging apps. I will work with you to ensure we experience clear, concise and timely contact in a way that works for you.
How often will we meet?
Therapy sessions are held once or twice a week as required by the client. The frequency of sessions reduces to fortnightly, then monthly, as progress is being made. You can then book three-monthly check-ins or contact me to arrange a session as and when new challenges arise.
What days and times are you available?
Dates and times are flexible to meet shift work and family commitments where possible. My core availability times are:
- Monday to Thursday: 11:00 - 13:00 & 14:00 - 18:00
- Saturday: 11:00 - 13:00
A limited number of evening appointments are available; please contact me for details.
Location & Therapy Options
Where do we meet?
Sessions can be held face-to-face at my cosy, welcoming premises in Rusham Road, Egham.
Alternatively, sessions can be held via telephone or video call. I currently offer sessions via the following video calling platforms:
- Facebook Messenger
- Zoom
- Microsoft Teams
What kind of difficulties can you help with?
My main speciality is to help people cope with trauma and PTSD, but I help clients with a wide range of difficulties. I focus on providing support for the following issues:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Stress
- SEND
- Work-related stress
- Self-esteem
- Life purpose/identity
- Personal development
- Addictions (cigarettes, chocolate, sugar)
- Behaviour problems
What is your therapeutic approach?
I provide therapy using a Person-Centred approach. Depending on the issues we are working on, your therapy sessions may include the techniques listed below:
- Creative therapy - Therapeutic Drawing
Practical Information
What if I need to cancel a session?
I appreciate that we all lead busy lives and occasionally, cancellations are unavoidable. This is why I allow a time frame of 48 hours for you to cancel any booked appointments with me. Failure to cancel an appointment within 48 hours may incur a charge. Please understand that this is not only due to the loss of income I experience if you do not keep your appointment but also because the appointment could have been given to another client in need.
Are you insured?
Yes – I hold a Public Liability & Professional Indemnity Insurance policy with Zurich.
Professional Credentials
What qualifications and experience do you have?
Qualifications
- Counselling Level 4 Diploma
- Counselling Children and Young People Training
- Suicide Awareness Training
- Trauma Training
- NeuroGraphica Specialist Qualification
- Counselling Level 3 Diploma
- Counselling Level 2 Diploma
- Attachment Training
- Autism Training
- Mental Health First Aid Certified
- Hypnotherapy Diploma
- DBS Check (Enhanced)
- Adoption training for attachment, trauma & challenging behaviour
Professional Memberships
- Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP)
- Accredited Member of the National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society (NCPS Accred.)
Professional Courses Authored
- Mindfulness Course – CPD Accredited by BCMA
- Drawing Therapy Course - CPD Accredited by BCMA
Experience Supporting Adoptive Families & SEND Children
- 2019 - Founded the Community Interest Company "SEND and Adoption Project"
- 2021 - 2025 Borough of Spelthorne Co-ordinator for Family Voice Surrey, a charitable organisation championing the needs and rights of SEND families in Surrey with children or young adults up to the age of 25 who have special educational needs, chronic illnesses, including mental health conditions, or disabilities.
What professional oversight do you receive?
In line with the professional standards expected of all therapists, I receive regular clinical supervision from a highly trained therapist who is experienced in supporting and guiding other therapists to ensure professional standards are adhered to.
Do you offer therapy in multiple languages?
As a bilingual therapist, I offer sessions in both English and Italian.