Frequently
Asked
Questions
What can I expect from a first session?
Starting therapy is a big step and it can be unsettling if you do not know what to expect. In the first meeting, we will explore together the issues that bring you to therapy and think about the options available to you. We can think about what type of therapy would be better for you and may agree to meet for a number of sessions. However, there is no expectation that you start therapy after the first session and we can have an open conversation about the best way forward.
What about fees?
For face to face sessions, my fee is £130 for a 50 minute session. ,
For online therapy, my fee is £110 for a 50 minute session.
Do you accept private health insurance?
Yes, I am registered with all of the major heath insurances including AXA PPP, BUPA, Simplyhealth, CIGNA, AVIVA, WPA and Pru Health. Fees for private health insurance are higher due to the administrative tasks involved. For payments, I will liaise directly with your insurance company. To do this, I will need some details from you about your health insurance and authorisation code. Health insurances usually authorise an initial number of sessions or a particular budget for therapy. On occasions, there is an excess to pay on the insurance which needs to be paid to me directly.
How long will I need therapy for?
The number of sessions needed depends on your problems and goals. I find it helpful to meet weekly to start with so that we can start working effectively on the issues that brought you to therapy, making sense of them first and then working on change. Later sessions can happen fortnightly or sometimes even less frequently towards the end to support you to maintain the progress you have made. After our first appointment, I may be able to give you a clearer sense of roughly how long we may need to work together. Having regular reviews is also a feature of my way of working so that we can track your progress and make sure that you are getting what you are hoping from therapy. Some people may require six sessions or less to overcome a difficult period or arrive at a healthier position. However, more commonly longer is required to achieve therapy goals especially when problems may stem from early trauma or there are problematic patterns of behaviour that have become habitual. Some may achieve their initial treatment goal early on in therapy, but may decide to stay in therapy for a longer period to work through deeper relationship difficulties or because they continue to benefit from the stability provided through a regular therapy space.
Does online therapy work or is face to face therapy better?
Online therapy has been in more demand given how convenient it is to fit around busy lifestyles. It also makes it accessible for people who do not have the option of seeing someone face to face. Research suggests that online therapy is as effective as face to face therapy and all of the therapeutic approaches I offer can be delivered online. Of course, this doesn’t mean that online therapy is for everyone and we can discuss this in the initial consultation.
What’s your cancellation policy?
I have a 48 hours cancellation policy and will ask you to pay the fee in full if you give me less than 48 notice.
Do you offer therapy in other languages?
I can offer therapy in Italian as well as English.