FAQs
Confidentiality
I see confidentiality as a priority in order for us to be able to work together. I work within The Health and Care Professionals Council (HPCP) and British Association of Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy (BABCP) ethical framework. All sessions are conducted in strict confidence and any notes taken secured.
At the start of therapy, I will ask you to complete a mandatory form which includes your GP contact details but this is only for emergency use.
How many sessions will I need and how often?
CBT is usually offered weekly for a time limited period (usually 12-20 sessions but can be shorter). An intrinsic part of the approach is teaching you to become your own therapist. DIT is based on a 16 session model. The regularity keeps momentum in practicing new ways of thinking / doing . However, with some presentations such as; low self esteem or more long standing conditions, therapy can be longer term. I will discuss this with you at the start of therapy and review as needed.
How long are the sessions?
Sessions last for 50 minutes. If we are focusing on specific areas with certain presentations then I may ask if you wish to extend sessions with your prior agreement.
Sessions are most effective if weekly and at an agreed time and day. Fortnightly sessions or monthly follow up sessions can be arranged.
Do I work with external agencies / services?
Yes. If you wish to access therapy via your workplace or private health insurance, I work with BUPA/AVIVA/AXA.
Online work or face to face?
Traditionally therapy was two people sitting in a room together. However, in recent years and increasingly so, research suggests and from professional experience, it can be just as effective online. Adaptations to methods may be used, such as screen sharing rather than using a white board together and maybe in relation to more behavioural work. In modern day life, having the flexibility to ‘log on’ to your session minus the travel can be convenient and stress free.
Main differences between CBT and other types of therapy?
It can be confusing navigating around therapy sites and knowing which type of therapy is best suited. CBT is helpful when wanting to think about current difficulties, have goals in mind and are ready to make changes to ways of thinking and behaving. It’s primarily a change focused therapy concentrated on current patterns/ difficulties. Other types of therapies may be less structured, longer term and less goal orientated. They may be more helpful if you have relational difficulties or struggle to identify how you feel or what you think.