FAQs
What is a Clinical Psychologist?
As a minimum, Clinical Psychologists are trained to doctoral level. We are able to draw on many areas of expertise in our therapeutic practice. This includes our knowledge of child development and a biological, psychological and sociological understanding of emotional well being and mental health. As clinical and theoretical research is integral to our training, Clinical Psychologists offer evidenced based therapies and interventions. We are trained in multiple therapeutic modalities which allows us to be flexible in our approach to clients.
What is ACT?
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is a mindfulness based therapy that encourages people to embrace their thoughts and feelings rather than fighting or feeling guilty for them. The goal of ACT is to create a rich and meaningful life, while accepting the pain that inevitably goes with it.
Through experiential exercises clients learn how to approach thoughts, feelings, memories, and physical sensations that have been feared and avoided. Clients gain the skills to re-frame and accept these private events, develop greater clarity about personal values, and commit to needed behaviour change.
Follow this link to find out more:
https://contextualscience.org/free_videos_learning_about_and_applying_act
How many sessions will I need?
Following the first two appointments, you and your therapist will come up with some goals for treatment and contract the number of sessions. We typically recommend between 8-16 sessions depending on client need.
Do I need to be referred by my GP?
No, you can self refer.
Can I choose which therapist I see?
Yes. Have a look at our individual pages to see who you think might be a ‘good fit’.
What is CBT?
CBT, is a family of talking therapies, all based on the premise that thoughts, feelings and behaviours are all connected. So, by changing one of these we can alter all the others. CBT works to help us notice and change thinking styles or behaviour patterns so we can feel better essentially.
CBT is a collaborative therapy - it’s not something that is done to someone. Clients work with their therapist to reach mutually agreed goals.
For more information follow this link: https://babcp.com/What-is-CBT
What will happen following making an enquiry?
Following client enquiries we all offer a free consultation. This is a chance for you to explain a little about what is going on for you and briefly what you are hoping to get out of therapy. It is also a chance for us to tell you a little about ourselves and you can ask any questions you may have about the therapy we offer. If you are happy to arrange an initial appointment we can do this following the consultation.
Do you have specialist areas of expertise?
Yes, we all specialise in different areas. However this does not mean that our work is limited to these areas. Gemma has a special interest in treating anxiety disorders, Rosie has an interest in OCD, Catherine in PTSD and Madeleine in Eating Disorders. However, our work in not limited to these areas.
Will you write to my GP about me?
We do not write to GPs as routine but there are some circumstances where it is necessary and we will always talk to you about this prior to doing so. Please see our Privacy Policy for more details.
Do I have to attend sessions at the same time each week?
Not necessarily. This is something you can discuss with us in your initial consultation as we are all able to offer different levels of flexibility.
What is EMDR?
EMDR is a powerful therapy designed to help people recover from traumatic events in their lives. EMDR is recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Follow this link for more details:
https://emdrassociation.org.uk/
What will happen in our first appointment?
During the first appointment the aim is to find out more about you, so your treating clinician will usually ask a lot of questions about your current difficulties, your understanding of them and how it affects your day to day life. We will also be interested to know about your childhood, and any key events and relationships. Our ultimate aim is to make you feel as comfortable and relaxed as possible as we are aware how daunting starting therapy can be.
Do you offer weekend and evening appointments?
Currently Catherine and Madeleine offer evening appointments. Unfortunately, none of us offer weekend appointments.
Do I have to complete the course of treatment?
You are welcome to terminate therapy at any point as long as doing so is within our terms of service.
Do I have to attend sessions weekly?
Not necessarily. This is something you can discuss with your Clinical Psychologist in your initial consultation. However, it can often be important to have weekly sessions to build momentum at the beginning of therapy. This can be reduced to fortnightly once therapy is established if this is a preference.