People often ask me what the difference is. A common belief is that counselling is shorter term and psychotherapy is a longer process and more in depth. This can be the case, but often enough, psychotherapy is shorter term than counselling and less in depth. It just depends, so I tend to use the terms counselling and psychotherapy interchangeably.

Also, I believe it should be you, not me, who decides on the length of your therapy and how deep you want to go. There may be times when you want to/need to explore more difficult areas and times when you prefer not to. A talking therapy can help, no matter what, though obviously, there are no guarantees.

What exactly is therapy?

There is no universal definition. Broadly speaking, therapy should offer you the opportunity to talk, confidentially, to a qualified practitioner, who is trained to listen to you carefully, and allow you to feel heard, understood and accepted.

People choose to start therapy for all kinds of reasons. They might be feeling anything from vague discomfort to feeling extremely distressed or/and unhappy. They might be clear about what has triggered them to seek a therapist. Equally, they might be less clear. It doesn’t really matter, from my point of view, as a therapist. It’s the outcome that’s important, not where we start.

Some people just want a few sessions to clarify things. Others know they want to make a longer commitment.

 I don’t mind which version someone wants, providing it is within the remit of what is realistic, ethical and I am able to offer.

I also offer one off sessions.