Frequently Asked Questions
You may have some questions about starting counselling or psychotherapy. Below are some common questions I receive and if you have any other questions you are welcome to call me.
What is your Therapeutic approach?
As an accredited psychoanalytic psychotherapist, with training in mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, I will tailor our work to meet your specific needs. Although, I am trained in many disciplines of therapy research has shown that having a good fit between the therapist and client is more important than the specific therapy type. Therefore, we will work to develop trust in the relationship and ensure that you feel comfortable with the therapy approach being used.
Do you specialise in A particular area?
I work with people with all issues, though I have a particular speciality in dealing with anxiety, whether that is generalised anxiety where you are worrying constantly, or a particular anxiety such as phobias, OCD or social anxiety.
How long Should i attend therapy?
Each person and situation is different. Most clients will benefit to committing for at least 6 months of weekly therapy. The weekly therapy session lasts for 40 - 50 minutes. While you may see improvements after a few sessions, therapy is not a quick fix! Therapy is a long and lasting commitment and investment in yourself. I see clients anywhere from 3 sessions to 300 sessions. However everyone is unique and how long you attend depends on the nature of your struggle, how much change is required, the complexity of the issue and most of all, your commitment to that change.
Is Therapy Completely Confidential?
Confidentiality is maintained in line with GDPR. This means that client records are entirely confidential, the only limitations being where there is a risk to yourself or others, as per the ICP code of ethics and the Children First Guidelines.
When are appointments available?
I offer weekly appointments from Monday to Friday. Together we will find a time that suits you and attempt to schedule that as your regular time, though I maintain a flexible approach to scheduling.
How often do you meet with clients?
It is recommended that you attend sessions on at least a weekly basis. Having weekly sessions creates some momentum for change and assists you in feeling better and reaching your goals. Attending irregularly dilutes the process and slows down the changes you may require.
How much does it cost and What forms of payment do you accept?
The fee is 80-100 euros per session. I am happy to accept cash or cheque, I do not have card payment facilities.
What is your cancellation policy?
I operate a 48 hour notice cancellation policy. If you cancel with notice of less than 48 hours, the full session fee is still due.
How do I schedule my first appointment?
If you have decided that I am the right person to help you reach your goal, scheduling your first appointment is easy. You can give me a call on 086 8317107, or complete the email form available on this website to schedule your first session. I will usually respond within 1 business day.
What will happen when I contact you?
Here is a short summary of what you can expect from start to finish in therapy with me.
When you first contact me... by telephone or email, I will ask you to give me brief overview of the issues you are seeking help with, I will answer any questions, and I will share how I can help. From our discussion you will get a brief idea of my personality and how I work. We will discuss fees, and your schedule. At that point, you may decide to make an appointment.
If you decide to make an appointment... We will agree a time and I will send you an email confirming your appointment time and date. I will also send you some information for you to read and a form to complete. If you are under 18, you will need consent from your parents/guardians to attend and I will send you a consent form to be completed.
When you arrive... I will show you to the therapy room for counselling & psychotherapy. The room is private, simple, and comfortable.
We start the session... We will introduce ourselves, talk about the limits of confidentiality, and review briefly counselling policies. We will discuss any questions you may have about the process. I will then invite you to speak and tell me about the issues that have brought you to see me and we will proceed from there.
Ending therapy... When you have met your goals and have a plan to stay healthy in the future, we will discuss ending therapy. We discuss reasons why you might return (because therapy is not just for managing crises) and any final questions you may have.
This is a very brief outline or overview which may be useful particularly if you are new to therapy. It does not consider any hiccups or bumps along the way. Whatever the issue that comes up, we can discuss how this impacts therapy. Examples of unexpected bumps might be, "I got transferred at work," "I lost my job," "I am just not ready right now, I want to wait for the right time."
If this process sounds like what you need, call me at 086 8317107 or fill in the contact form below to send me a message.