Frequently Asked Questions

Therapy is not only for moments of crisis. You don’t have to wait until things feel unmanageable to benefit from support. Many people find therapy helpful as a way of moving from “doing okay” to feeling more resourced, connected, and fulfilled. It can also help prevent difficulties from worsening, since working through issues takes energy, and it’s often easier to do that when you’re not already running on empty.

What should I expect in the first session?

The first full session session we have is an assessment session; it’s an opportunity for me to ask you some questions and get to know you better. We would also look at how we would work together going forward, and develop a deeper understanding of what you need from therapy.

Is everything I say confidential?

Yes, this is to ensure that you can feel safe discussing private and personal issues. There is a handful of ethical exceptions to this e.g. if your or another persons’ safety is at imminent risk. I will go through these with you in our first session.

How much does therapy cost?

The session fee I charge is £75

I work in Richmond Upon Thames, Twickenham and online.

What happens if I miss a session?

Life happens! Sometimes you may not be able to attend a session for a variety of reasons. I will endeavour to offer you an opportunity to reschedule to find a mutually suitable time. If the cancellation is last minute, and we are unable to reschedule, you will still be liable for the fees. I have a clear cancellation policy so you will know ahead of time.

How do you adapt therapy for neurodivergent clients?

Living in a world that often asks you to communicate and process in ways that don’t feel natural can be exhausting, isolating, or painful. Much of psychotherapy was developed around assumptions about how people think and express themselves, which means its theories don’t always capture the realities of neurodivergent experience. When those frameworks are applied without question, they can misinterpret feelings and motivations, leaving people unseen or even harmed, like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. My aim is to create a different kind of space: one where you can be yourself and explore what you need and want openly, without pressure to mask or conform. That’s why my most valuable adaptation is to set aside predetermined models and prioritise your goals and ways of working instead.

I’m also happy to make practical adjustments to the environment. For example, seating can be arranged so you’re not directly facing me, reducing the need for eye contact if that’s more comfortable. Lighting can be softened or repositioned. These adjustments, combined with flexible session tools and approaches, aim to create a therapeutic space that responds to your sensory needs and processing style.

For example, some neurodivergent clients benefit from visual, creative and non-linear approaches to understanding and expressing themselves. In sessions, we might use colourful post-its, make charts together, draw, or use objects and toys to explore themes. These methods help some to communicate, organise, and process thoughts and feelings in ways that feel authentic. It can be especially helpful when talking alone is challenging. Alternatively, implementing additional support like having extra guidance through the process from me, can be helpful for those who find therapy too open and unstructured.

To make these adaptations effective, your feedback is essential. I work with you to explore what adjustments feel most helpful, what might not work, and how we can experiment with creative approaches together. The goal is a therapy space that genuinely recognises, understands, and accommodates your ways of being, thinking, and relating, so you can engage authentically and safely in the work.

Who can benefit from therapy – is it only for people with a mental health diagnosis?

Therapy is not only for people who have a formal diagnosis or are in crisis. Many clients come because they want to feel more fulfilled, improve their relationships, or better understand themselves, not just because they’ve hit rock bottom. Therapy can help you move from just coping to thriving, building emotional resilience and clarity so you can engage more fully with life. It can also help you build resources, and prevent things from getting worse.

It’s important to remember that therapy can involve opening up difficult experiences or exploring patterns that may feel painful. Having emotional and mental resources in place helps you engage safely and get the most from the work. That’s why seeking support earlier, rather than waiting until things become unmanageable is important.

Through therapy, we can work on personal growth, relational patterns, self-understanding, and strategies for managing life’s challenges. Sessions are collaborative and tailored to your needs, so you can explore at a pace that feels right, while also gently expanding your capacity to cope and thrive.

Can I combine psychotherapy with medication?

Yes, therapy and medication can work well together and offer you an additional pillar of support in the therapeutic process.

I have a disability. Do you offer an inclusive and accessible therapy practice?

Yes, I am committed to providing an inclusive and disability-affirmative therapy practice. While the physical therapy rooms I rent do not have wheelchair access, I offer sessions via Zoom, which many clients find convenient and accessible.

I am also very open to any adaptations or adjustments that could make therapy more comfortable and effective for you. If there are ways of working, communication methods, or practical supports that would help you access therapy, I would be glad to explore them with you. My priority is creating a space that works for your needs, preferences, and comfort, and I welcome suggestions about what will make our sessions most accessible and beneficial and help you feel seen. If unsure, reach out and we can talk about it.

What if therapy doesn’t feel like it’s working?

It’s natural to wonder whether therapy is “working.” Sometimes people arrive hoping for a quick fix, or imagining that therapy will always feel supportive and never confronting. In reality, progress isn’t linear and can take time, and some sessions may feel difficult or challenging, not because therapy is failing, but because facing painful or hidden parts of ourselves is often a pivotal part of the process.

What “working” looks like is also different for everyone. For some people, the goal might be to stabilise and find coping strategies that help them manage day to day. For others, it may be a deeper exploration into long-standing patterns, identity, or relationships. Both are equally valid, and it really depends on what you want and need. Therapy is also most effective when you understand that you’re an active participant, sharing honestly, reflecting on what happens in sessions, and communicating your needs. My role is to guide and support, but your willingness to take responsibility for your process is what brings the work to life.

At other times, therapy may not feel right because the way we are working together isn’t matching your needs. That’s why it’s important that you talk about it openly. You may be expecting something different from me, or I may be missing some of your priorities or preferences, and exploring these together can help make the therapy more effective for you. Having that conversation allows us to adjust, fine-tune, and make sure the work continues to serve you.

Therapy is always your choice. You are free to end at any point if you feel it’s no longer helpful. People end therapy for many reasons: some because they’ve achieved their goals, others due to changes in circumstances, or because they feel ready to manage on their own. All of these are valid choices. If you’re unsure, we can discuss it together. And remember, therapy is always here for you if you choose to return. Even when it feels difficult, therapy can open up possibilities for growth, understanding, and self-acceptance.