Individual Psychotherapy

One to one confidential service.

Coming to terms with the trouble of life.

This usually involves a commitment to a regular weekly session of 50 minutes on an agreed day and time. However what is important is the creation of a rhythm and routine pattern, so if a longer session, more or less frequent, is what is needed this may be discussed and agreed in advance.
Psychotherapy is not usually time limited in terms of the number of sessions, but open ended based upon the process that an individual is engaged in. This often challenges the notion that change should happen within a set number of sessions or 'one size fits all' approach. However, sometimes it is helpful to include an agreed review session to focus and reflect on the process of therapy.
An agreement of the terms for psychotherapy is clarified between myself and each individual client based on a discussion at the beginning.

Initial Consulation:

Where do I begin and where do I end?

With every client I pay particular attention to beginning and ending the therapeutic relationship.

At the beginning I meet with a client for a shorter session. Rather than get 'into' the work the first meeting provides an opportunity to get a sense of what it might be like to work together face to face, a client is able to familiarise with the meeting space for sessions and for me to clarify and respond to any questions you may have about what you can expect, my approach, fees etc It is often helpful to consider and share briefly what brings you to therapy, and any previous experience. This is usually followed by a discussion to explore what might be needed and a way forward. If it is agreed that psychotherapy will begin we will discuss availability, day/ times/ venue. It is also a good time to provide any practical details such as existing support, next of kin, GP, medication etc.
Psychotherapy is not usually time limited but open ended based upon the process that an individual is engaged in. This often challenges the notion that change should happen within a set number of sessions or 'one size fits all' approach. However a review is carried out at six weeks to reflect on the process. A more formal written agreement for psychotherapy is made between myself and all clients based on our discussion at the beginning. It is then the responsibility of both parties to raise any issues that may impact upon the therapeutic contract. For example for a client this may involve a change in personal circumstances/ finances where a conversation between us can explore what is needed.
I recommend that clients work towards ending the therapeutic relationship to explore what is evoked, bring insight into patterns of ending relationships and make choices about creating opportunities to end with consciousness.

Individual Psychotherapy One to one: Services