Frequently asked questions
Where and when can I have an appoitment?
I work from 9.00-2:30 Monday to Thursday during the school term. I have clinics in Cowes, on the Isle of Wight, and in Southampton.
What training do you have?
I hold a Master's degree (MA) in Psychology and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy). In addition, I have pursued supplementary training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I am committed to upholding the highest standards of care and ethical practice. To ensure the quality of my work, I engage in ongoing professional development and regular supervision sessions with experienced professionals, which allows for ongoing guidance, learning, and reflection on my therapeutic approaches. With this combination of qualifications, expertise, and dedication, I am here to support you on your journey towards improved mental and emotional well-being.
What happens in therapy?
During therapy, we will work together to address your emotional, psychological, and behavioural concerns. It's a process designed to help you gain insight and develop strategies to cope with challenges and promote personal growth. Typically, sessions begin with you sharing what's on your mind, what issues you're facing, and how you've been feeling. Therapy often involves various techniques and approaches tailored to your specific needs. This might include cognitive-behavioral techniques to identify and change negative thought patterns, mindfulness exercises to enhance self-awareness, relaxation techniques to manage stress, and more.
Therapy is your journey, in which you set the goals, and is unique to each individual. The number of sessions required varies depending on your goals and the nature of your concerns. We don't talk about anything you don't want to, and you're free to redesign the goals at any times. By finding the space between where you currently are and where you would like to be, we can work on strategies to move towards that preferred space.
Are you registered to practice?
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist (BPS membership 730395), hold an Enhanced Disclosure, and am registered with the HCPC (PYL042293). I am a member of a number of other professional societies, including EMDRNZ and EMDR Association UK.
Will you tell anyone about what we talk about?
Confidentiality is a fundamental principle that lies at the heart of the therapeutic relationship. It means that everything you share during your sessions will be kept private and not disclosed to anyone else without your explicit permission. This safe and private space encourages openness, trust, and honesty, allowing you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of judgment or repercussions. However, it's important to note that there are legal and ethical limitations to confidentiality. In some situations, therapists may be obligated to break confidentiality if there is a concern for your safety or the safety of others. Additionally, therapists often engage in clinical supervision, where they discuss cases with other professionals, but your identity is always kept confidential. Overall, confidentiality is a cornerstone of therapy, ensuring that you can engage in a therapeutic process that respects your privacy while also prioritizing your well-being. If you have any questions about this, please do ask.
How often will we meet?
That is something we can discuss and find what works best for you. Most commonly, appointments are every 1 - 2 weeks.
Got another question? Get in contact and I'll be do my best to answer it for you.