Therapy is a structured conversation with a trained professional therapist. The therapist is there to support you, as you share your struggles with intense feelings, thoughts or intrusive memories.

Therapy will help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself, your emotions and your needs. It can make meaningful changes in your life. You can be provided with practical tools and new perspectives to cope effectively with challenges, as well as anxiety, depression, loss, relationship struggles, self-esteem and confidence. Therapy can help restore emotional balance and empower you to face life challenges with greater self-belief, confidence and clarity.

It's natural to feel anxious. Remember that your therapist is professionally trained to create a safe space. Client confidentiality protects your privacy. You control what you share. You can start with less sensitive topics, gradually building comfort and trust with your therapist.

This will be your choice. You don't need to prepare anything, though you may find it helpful to set some time aside to make brief notes about the issues you're facing, and what you hope to achieve.

The first session involves taking time to talk about your reasons for seeking therapy. We would discuss your hopes, goals and expectations, and establish what you would like to get out of the sessions. You might know exactly what it is you want to work on, or just have a general idea of needing some support with the challenges of your life at the moment. I will tell you about my therapeutic approach and welcome any questions you might have. It's a chance for both of us to decide if it's a good fit. We can explore options for you, together.

Each session lasts for 50 minutes.

This is a very individual choice. Therapy does, however, tend to be most effective when attended on a regular basis.

This will depend on a number of factors: what brings you to therapy, the time length of each session, and the frequency of the sessions. Some people benefit from short-term therapy e.g. 8-20 sessions, while others engage in longer-term therapy.

Information about you will not be shared to anyone else without your permission (apart from professional supervisors who are bound by the same confidentiality). The only reason a therapist will consider breaking confidentiality is if they are concerned that you are at serious risk of harm. This possible disclosure should be discussed with you first.

A therapist provides counselling and/or psychotherapy. A psychologist has received advanced education and training. They can conduct assessments and offer therapy. A psychiatrist also conducts assessments, but they will have a different approach to treatment. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe medication and often treat more complex psychiatric conditions.