Since 1997 I have worked in private practice as a counsellor, psychotherapist and group facilitator. I am available for a confidential consultation in Enfield Town and Palmers Green. I also offer sessions via Skype, Zoom or over the phone.
Please scroll down the page for a list of frequently asked questions. If you can't find what you are looking for or if you would like more information, please get in touch and I will be happy to reply.
What is your approach to psychotherapy?
I describe my approach as integrative as I have studied and trained in more than one approach. Originally, I was extensively trained in Transpersonal Psychotherapy. I have also studied Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, and Process-Oriented Psychotherapy. The different approaches all have something to offer and may or may not be right for you, depending on your current needs and the issues that you are facing.
What personal qualities do you bring to your work?
I have been told that I am approachable and that I provide a calm and non-judgemental space for clients to explore their issues and concerns. I am naturally empathic and clients have often remarked that they feel seen and understood in their sessions. I have a sense of humour and firmly believe that even in the darkest and loneliest of situations, laughter is possible and often healing.
What sort of issues do you work with?
I am most often consulted by people who have anxiety or depression. Modern life can be stressful and many people seek my help with stress and stress-related health conditions. I am frequently consulted for help with relationship problems. In recent years I have seen an increase in the number of people who are seeking help with alcohol, food and eating disorders. Many people come because their life is just not working the way they want it to, and they feel stuck and unable to move forward.
Do you work with couples as well as individuals?
Yes I do. For more information follow this link.
What is the difference between coaching, counselling and psychotherapy?
There is a large degree of overlap and many people use the terms ‘counselling’ and ‘psychotherapy’ interchangeably. On the whole, coaching is generally more specific, goal-orientated and motivational. Sessions may be on an ad hoc basis. Counselling typically focuses on problems or issues that are causing you emotional pain, holding you back or just preventing your enjoyment of life. It still can be quite focused, but sessions are more exploratory and are usually weekly for a set number of sessions. Psychotherapy generally implies a longer ongoing period of counselling with at least 1 session each week. It is a deeper and more subtle process and a comprehensive exploration of your life and concerns.
Do you practise ‘psychodynamic’ psychotherapy?
No, my particular style is more interactive and relational. Although, I would say that my work is informed by psychodynamic theory, as I have studied this approach during my training and have undergone long-term psychodynamic psychotherapy myself.
What happens in a typical first session?
I usually start by running through some formalities, such as address and telephone number, session fee and my confidentiality policy. Then I may ask a question such as ‘What brings you here to see me?’ This is an opportunity for you to begin to tell your story. At this early stage, I am attempting to understand just how you see the issue that you face, how you frame it and what this may imply. This helps me to avoid making assumptions about how you see your situation, what expectations you have and what resolution you imagine is posible. By the end of the first session, I aim to have a clear idea of your ‘presenting problem’ and some of the dilemmas involved in its solution. I always invite questions and do my best to answer them fully. Providing you feel comfortable to continue, we may schedule another session(s) to further explore your situation.
Over the next few weeks, we will explore your issues in more detail, relating history to current events and to what we perceive is taking place in the consulting room. Frequently we may find that upon closer examination, the ‘presenting issue' or problem concealed, or perhaps was an aspect of a deeper issue and concern.
Are the sessions confidential?
There are only two circumstances in which I may break confidentiality. One: If I believe that you are about to seriously harm yourself. Two: If I believe that you are about to seriously harm someone else. From time to time I may consult a fellow psychotherapist on an aspect of my work, this process of ‘supervision’ does not reveal your name, address, date of birth or any other obviously identifying information.
Do you keep notes or files on your clients?
In most cases, I do not keep formal clinical notes. I may keep a brief record of what takes place in a session as a personal 'aide memoire'. I may also keep some basic contact information for invoicing. Some private medical insurers may require additional information - only provided with your consent. Information is kept securely at all times.
Can I see you while I am seeing another therapist?
In most cases, the answer is no. Usually, I would encourage you to discuss the matter first with your existing counsellor/psychotherapist. This restriction only applies to individual work. I am usually happy to see a person who may be attending group or couple therapy elsewhere.
Where do you practise?
In Palmers Green and Enfield Town.
How long are the sessions?
Individuals - 50 minutes. Couples sessions may be longer.
How often should I come?
Most people attend one or two sessions each week. A few people see me on a fortnightly basis.
How long will I have to come?
Many individuals and couples can gain enormous benefits from just a few sessions. Others may require much longer. Without additional information, it is not possible to fully answer that question. I would need to know where you currently are and where you want to get to. It would also help to know what challenges you may face, your motivation for change and the support and resources you have at your disposal. After a session or two, I can usually answer this question more accurately.
What sort of commitment is required?
Initially, there is no formal commitment and we may proceed on a session-by-session basis. Usually, after a few weeks, we would formalise arrangements, depending on the particular issue that you bring and the anticipated length of the therapy. Typically, I would suggest we agree to meet for a set number of sessions and then review our progress.
What fees do you charge?
Individuals: £80.00
Couples: £100.00
Can I pay for my sessions through my private medical insurance?
Yes. I am verified by Bupa, AXA PPP, Vitality Health and Aviva. Please contact me if you have a different provider and I will see if they cover my fees.
Do I always have to keep to the same appointment time?
Usually, yes. However, I do understand that people’s circumstances can change and some people have irregular work patterns. In such instances, I would work with you to find a mutually suitable arrangement.
What if I need to cancel a session?
I require a minimum of 48 hours' notice of cancelled sessions.
Do you work evenings or weekends?
Evening appointments are available both at Enfield Town and Palmers Green. Saturday mornings are also available in Palmers Green.
How can I contact you outside of sessions?
Email is best.
Do you offer Zoom, Skype, FaceTime or phone sessions?
Yes. I regularly work with people who live and work overseas or who frequently travel. I also work with people who may live locally, but for various reasons find it difficult to attend sessions. Zoom is my preferred method.
Do you work with businesses and organisations?
Yes. I have a background in business. I have worked as a business coach and have advised companies and organisations on a wide range of human resource issues.
Do you belong to a professional organisation?
Yes. I am registered with the UKCP (United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy) and follow their code of professional ethics. See www.psychotherapy.org.uk
I am also a member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy
Registered with Counselling Directory