My Approach and the Way I Work

I have worked in private practice as a counsellor and psychotherapist since 1997, supporting adults through a wide range of emotional, relational, and life challenges. Alongside my private work, I have experience within the NHS and voluntary sector, and I work in line with established professional and ethical standards. Choosing a therapist is an important decision, particularly if this is your first experience of therapy, and the information below is intended to help you decide whether my way of working feels right for you.

I work in an integrative way, drawing on more than one therapeutic model so that the work can be responsive to your needs rather than confined to a single theory. My original training was in Transpersonal Psychotherapy, and I have also studied Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Gestalt Therapy, and Process-Oriented Psychotherapy. Different approaches can be helpful at different times, depending on the issues you are facing and what feels most supportive for you.

Alongside training and experience, the personal qualities I bring to the work are an important part of the therapeutic process. Clients often describe me as approachable and say they value the calm, non-judgemental space I provide. I aim to work with warmth, empathy, and respect, helping people feel seen and understood. I also believe that even in very difficult circumstances, humour and lightness can have an important and healing place.

Issues I Commonly Work With

Anxiety and depression
Stress and overwhelm
Relationship and couples difficulties
Addiction and dependency
Eating disorders and food-related issues
Low motivation and loss of direction
Life transitions and periods of change
ADHD-related concerns

Practical questions often come up when people are considering therapy, particularly if this is their first experience of it. The following section addresses some of the most common questions about how I work, what to expect, and the practical arrangements involved. You are welcome to read what feels relevant to you. If you have a question that is not addressed here, or if you would like any further information you are welcome to contact me by phone or email via my contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you offer online sessions?

Yes. I regularly work online with people who live overseas, travel frequently, or find it difficult to attend in person. Zoom is my preferred platform.

Do you work with couples as well as individuals?

Yes. I work with both individuals and couples. If you would like more information about couples or relationship therapy, please follow the relevant link on this page.

What is the difference between coaching, counselling and psychotherapy?

There is a considerable overlap between these terms, and they are often used interchangeably.

Coaching is generally more specific, goal-focused, and motivational, and sessions may be offered on an ad hoc basis.
Counselling usually focuses on issues that are causing emotional distress or limiting enjoyment of life. While it can be focused, it is also exploratory and typically offered weekly for a set period.
Psychotherapy usually refers to longer-term, ongoing work. It involves a deeper and more subtle exploration of life experiences, patterns, and concerns.

Do you practise psychodynamic psychotherapy?

My style is more interactive and relational. However, my work is informed by psychodynamic theory, which formed part of my training, and I have also undertaken long-term psychodynamic psychotherapy myself.

What happens in a typical first session?

The first session begins with some practical matters, such as contact details, session fees, and confidentiality. I will then usually ask something like, “What brings you here?” This allows you to begin telling your story in your own way.

At this stage, my aim is to understand how you see the issue you are facing, what meaning it has for you, and what you hope for from therapy. By the end of the session, I aim to have a clearer understanding of your concerns and some of the dilemmas involved. You are always welcome to ask questions. If you feel comfortable continuing, we can arrange further sessions.

Over the following weeks, we may explore how past experiences relate to current difficulties, including what emerges within the therapeutic relationship itself. Often, the initial issue is found to be connected to deeper concerns.

Are the sessions confidential?

Yes. Confidentiality is an essential part of therapy. There are only two circumstances in which I may need to break confidentiality:

If I believe you are at serious risk of harming yourself
If I believe there is a serious risk of harm to someone else

From time to time, I may consult with another psychotherapist as part of clinical supervision. No identifying information is shared during this process.

Do you keep notes or files on clients?

In most cases, I do not keep formal clinical notes. I may keep brief personal notes as an aide-mémoire and basic contact details for invoicing purposes. Any information is stored securely.

Some private medical insurers require additional information, which would only be shared with your consent.

Can I see you while also seeing another therapist?

In most cases, I would not see someone for individual therapy if they are already working individually with another therapist. I would usually suggest discussing this first with your existing therapist.

This restriction does not usually apply if you are attending group or couples therapy elsewhere.

Where do you practise?

I work in Enfield Town and Cambridge. I also offer online sessions.

How long are the sessions?

Individual sessions are 50 minutes. Couples sessions may be slightly longer.

How often should I attend?

Most people attend weekly or twice weekly. Some attend fortnightly, depending on their circumstances and needs.

How long will I need to come for?

Some people benefit from just a few sessions, while others choose longer-term work. This depends on where you are now, what you want to change, and the challenges involved. After one or two sessions, I can usually offer a clearer sense of what might be helpful.

What sort of commitment is required?

Initially, there is no formal commitment and sessions can proceed on a session-by-session basis. After a few weeks, we may agree on a more structured arrangement, depending on your needs and the anticipated length of the work.

What fees do you charge?

Individuals: £80
Couples: £100

Can I use private medical insurance?

Yes. I am registered with Bupa, AXA PPP, Vitality Health, and Aviva. If you have a different provider, please contact me and I will check whether your fees are covered.

Do I need to keep the same appointment time?

Usually yes, although I understand that work and personal circumstances can change. Where possible, I will work with you to find a suitable arrangement.

What if I need to cancel a session?

I require a minimum of 48 hours’ notice for cancellations.

Do you offer evening or weekend appointments?

Evening appointments are available in Enfield Town and Cambridge. Weekend appointments are not available.

How can I contact you outside of sessions?

Email is usually the best way to contact me outside sessions.

Do you offer online sessions?

Yes. I regularly work online with people who live overseas, travel frequently, or find it difficult to attend in person. Zoom is my preferred platform.

Do you work with businesses and organisations?

Yes. I have a background in business and have worked as a business coach, advising organisations on a range of human resource and workplace 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. I am also a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).

Registered with Counselling Directory