What times do you offer appointments for?

I tend to offer appointments out with regular working hours, so after 5pm in the evenings. I can offer appointments at the weekend too.

How often are sessions?

It is best to try to attend weekly sessions as I find that continuity helps to really focus in on particular issues. However, I can be flexible and work around your needs.

Where do sessions take place?

I have provided information on the Booking and Costs page which you can visit here. I do offer a choice of in-person sessions (in Banchory), walk and talk sessions (to suit you), and online sessions.

How long is each session?

Each session is 50 minutes long.

How many sessions will I need?

There is no set number. Obviously I appreciate that it is a financial investment when you come to see a counsellor/therapist, so I am going to work with you as effectively as I can. I will not waste your time and I will not suggest unnecessary appointments for you.

At our initial 15 minute conversation, and within our first session, I will be clear about suggesting an initial number of sessions. If you are happy with this, we can work through the sessions and we can review these as we get to the end of the run (with a view to add more, if required).

Typically, between 6-10 sessions can be very productive, but sometimes clients decide they want more time to explore complex issues.

What if I need to cancel a session?

It is no problem to cancel, but I do ask for cancellations to be made at least 24 hours before the scheduled appointment in order to avoid being charged for the session.

What is the cost of a session?

Depending on the type of session you require, there are different costs. More information can be found on the Booking and Costs page here.

Do I need to know what I want to work on before I come to counselling/therapy?

Absolutely not. Counselling and therapy provides a safe space for you to explore issues, and often this space provides clarity and understanding. I will work with you to help explore anything you bring to a session and in most instances, issues emerge naturally during sessions. Please do not put additional pressure on yourself to understand exactly what you need.

Having said that, some people have had previous experience of counselling and may have a good idea what has (and has not) worked in the past – it is always good to share this with me.

Are sessions confidential?

Yes. Once you decide to come to Developing Positives I will provide you with a contract which will explain, in much more detail, how sessions work and what to expect. Confidentiality is paramount and all information you share with me will not be disclosed to anyone.

There are exceptions to this, which I also explain in the contract and during our first session, and that relates to any indication of serious harm to yourself or others. If this information emerges during a session I will speak to you about this – please don’t worry though, it is not a common occurrence, but one that all counsellors and therapists need to abide by.

Is there anyone you don’t work with?

No. There is no issue that is off limits. Please do not feel embarrassed or ashamed. I have worked with a large number of people and dealt with medical issues, sexual issues, substance use issues, and behavioural issues (to name but a few).

I work with people from young adulthood onwards. Although I have worked with children in the past, my pluralistic therapist qualification is aimed at adults, so I do not work with younger children as there are practitioners who are better qualified to do this.

How do I know you are a competent/reputable therapist?

This is an essential question!

I am qualified as a pluralistic therapist and I have many years of experience which I say a bit about on my About me page here. I have researched extensively the benefits of therapeutic practices and have written a number of publications (which I list here). My PhD focused on a particular type of therapeutic practice which involved using photography in group work.

I pay for my own regular supervision (as per my registration requirements), and I am registered with COSCA. This means that I need to continue building my knowledge through continuous professional development (CPD). I am also insured to work as a counsellor/therapist.

And as a pluralistic therapist, I know that the most important thing is the therapeutic relationship that is formed between client and therapist. If you do not feel I am the right match for you once we start to work together, it is absolutely fine to say so and I will try to assist you in suggesting some alternative therapists you might like to approach. There will never be any pressure to stay (but obviously, I hope you experience a productive therapeutic working relationship with me).

If you have any questions that have not been answered please feel free to contact me here.