FAQ’s
What is the difference between Psychotherapy and Counselling?
Both terms are often used interchangeably, and there is considerable overlap between them. In some cases, counselling may be integrated into the psychotherapy process, and a counsellor might engage with clients using psychotherapeutic techniques.
The primary difference between the two approaches is the duration needed for clients to see benefits. Counselling typically provides shorter-term interventions focused on behaviour modification, while psychotherapy tends to emphasise long-term engagement, delving deeper into emotional challenges.
What is Psychotherapy and what can be gained?
My Psychotherapy service is a therapeutic process that works with individuals to address emotional and psychological issues. Throughout this talking therapy, I aim to help clients gain insight into their thoughts and feelings, develop coping strategies, and foster personal growth.
Through various approaches psychotherapy can provide several benefits:
Increased Self-Awareness: Clients gain a deeper understanding of their emotions, behaviours, and patterns, leading to greater self-knowledge.
Improved Coping Skills: Therapy equips individuals with tools to manage stress, anxiety, and other challenges more effectively.
Enhanced Relationships: Psychotherapy can help improve communication and interpersonal skills, leading to healthier relationships.
Emotional Relief: Clients often find a safe space to express their feelings, leading to emotional healing and relief from distress.
Personal Growth: Through the exploration of goals and values, therapy can foster personal development and a sense of purpose.
Overall, psychotherapy offers a supportive environment for individuals to work through challenges and enhance their overall well-being
What can I expect during my Initial consultation?
Your initial consultation will be arranged via the telephone or email, where I will send you a link to access your video call appointment, or you can provide a telephone number for me to contact you, at our agreed appointment time.
During this appointment, I will initially take some basic details from you that are required for online and telephone working, including your Name, Address and Telephone number. Following this, it is your opportunity to discuss the reasons why you have decided to access psychotherapy at this moment in time, any goals that you are working towards and we can liaise our availability should you wish to book in for your first psychotherapy appointment.
What to expect during my first psychotherapy appointment?
Together we will go through a contract, which you will be sent via email ahead of your appointment. After this, it is up to you what you want to bring to your first session. You may have decided to write some notes to help guide you through this process or just begin talking about your issues. It is helpful for me to understand your background, work life, family and support network. Any diagnosis or medication that you are currently taking or anything historically, and any previous therapy experiences. Your concerns, challenges and discomfort, as well as goals and aims.
The first session is a time to build rapport and establish a safe space for open dialogue. It’s perfectly okay to take your time to share what feels comfortable for you.
How long does it take?
Psychotherapy and counselling can take as long as you need it to. There is no set amount of sessions, unless you choose there to be. You can have as many or as little sessions as you want, take a pause or end, and then re-start your sessions when it feels right to do so.
Initial Consultations last for up to 30 minutes.
Psychotherapy sessions last for 50 minutes.
Supervision generally lasts for 90 minutes, depending on membership body requirements.
Critical incident and company support is agreed dependant on workforce need.
What is Bupa Recognition?
Bupa recognition refers to the accreditation or approval granted by Bupa, a global health insurance and care company, to certain healthcare providers, including therapists and clinics. This recognition indicates that I meet Bupa's standards for quality, safety, and service, making me eligible to offer Psychotherapy and Counselling to those covered under Bupa health insurance plans.
What is Supervision?
Supervision in the context of psychotherapy and counselling is a professional practice where experienced therapists provide guidance, support, and oversight to other psychotherapists and counsellors. It is a vital component of professional practice. Using Shohet and Hawkins 7-eyed supervision model I support practitioners with the following:
Professional Development
Supervision helps therapists enhance their skills, knowledge, and competencies. It provides a space for ongoing learning and reflection on clinical practice.
Case Management
Supervisors assist therapists in discussing and managing their client cases. This includes exploring different therapeutic approaches, strategies, and interventions.
Support and Reflection
Supervision offers a supportive environment where therapists can discuss the emotional challenges they face in their work, reflect on their feelings, and prevent burnout.
Ethical Guidance
Supervisors help ensure that therapists adhere to ethical standards and professional guidelines, addressing any ethical dilemmas that may arise in practice.
Accountability
Supervision provides a level of accountability, ensuring that therapists maintain a high standard of care and are mindful of their professional responsibilities.
Skill Enhancement
Through feedback and discussion, supervisors can help therapists develop new skills, techniques, and approaches to improve their effectiveness.
Cultural Competence
Supervisors can guide therapists in understanding and addressing cultural factors that may influence their practice and their clients’ experiences.
How can I help your company and workforce through critical incident?
In the face of critical incidents—such as workplace accidents, sudden employee loss, or any traumatic event —providing timely and effective support is crucial for employee well-being and organisational resilience. Here’s how I can assist your company:
Immediate Response
I offer prompt, on-site (within the Greater Manchester area), online video or telephone support to employees following a critical incident, helping them process their emotions and experiences in a safe environment.
Crisis Psychotherapy and Counselling
I provide crisis support to help individuals cope with shock, grief, and trauma. This includes active listening, emotional support, and practical coping strategies.
Debriefing Sessions
I can facilitate structured debriefing sessions for teams to discuss the incident, share feelings, and identify any ongoing concerns, promoting healing and team cohesion.
Training and Preparation
I can conduct training for managers and staff on how to recognize signs of distress and provide initial support, ensuring your team is prepared for future incidents.
Ongoing Support
Following an incident, I offer continued psychotherapy and support services to help employees process their experiences and integrate their feelings into their daily lives.
Confidentiality and Trust
All support services are delivered with the utmost confidentiality, fostering a trusting environment where employees feel safe to express their feelings.
By implementing a comprehensive critical incident support program, I can help your company enhance employee resilience, improve morale, and ensure a healthier workplace culture. Together, we can navigate the challenges of critical incidents and support your team effectively.