Our first appointment is about us getting to know each other and deciding if we are the right fit for each other. We will aim to gather an understanding of your hopes and directions for life, and discuss how therapy could be useful in terms of moving you towards this path. In service of this our initial session will be a 2-hour appointment.

I will discuss my experience, background and provide information about our sessions. With your consent, I will provide you with some questionnaires to complete during the session to inform our understanding of the challenges ahead, how you are progressing in terms of your overall wellbeing and to seek feedback on how the session has felt for you. If the fit between us or your needs are different to what I can provide, I will endeavour to help guide you to the right type of support or therapist that suits your needs. 

We will go over paperwork and a consent form covering aspects of confidentiality, contacts and session fees. The number of sessions needed may vary depending on the complexity of the challenges discussed. 

As sessions continue we will work collaboratively towards your goals and continue to tailor them to your needs. I may suggest that we work together on a pictorial representation of the challenges, strengths and areas for future growth to ensure you receive a holistic and integrative approach. I would also endeavour to review our progress regularly to make sure that therapy is working best for you. 

I strive to practice in line with the following core values. These are the directions I move towards wherever possible in therapy.

Care

I seek to engage my clients with the utmost care and respect for their needs and goals.

Compassion

I strive to be sensitive, open and present to the suffering of others and commit to it’s alleviation.

Warmth

For me, the qualities of care and compassion necessitate a deeper sense of warmth in my connection to clients. This means I am not averse to the use of humour or metaphor, and that I am willing to stay in the moment and honour the depth of your pain and challenges.

Autonomy

I believe that all people have the right to free choice. Your decisions will be respected as your own to make throughout our therapy.

Knowledge

I have always been passionate about science and strive to maintain up to date knowledge through a committed reading practice as well as regular attendance of conferences and best practice trainings.