What to expect

After you have made the decision to have CBT with me, this is what to expect;

How many sessions does it take?

This can vary but generally people will have between 6 and 20 sessions depending on their difficulties. Sessions are usually weekly and last between 50 minutes and an hour. We will review how you think each session has been at the end of every session and look at your experience of therapy regularly to ensure you are getting what you need from it.

In my experience it can take a few sessions to clarify your problem and start to become skilled at picking up on your thoughts and feelings.

What are the goals for therapy?

In our early sessions I will help you to identify goals for therapy. The ultimate aim of CBT is for you to become your own therapist, develop ways of dealing with difficult thoughts and emotions, and to develop new ways of being. This will involve learning new skills, and in CBT we will use between sessions work to practice your new skills. Practicing your new skills will gradually make things easier. Even great improvisational musicians have to learn scales!

Is CBT the right therapy for me?

In our initial session we will start with looking at your suitability for CBT. We'll look at your main difficulty together and consider it from a CBT perspective. If we then agree that CBT might be helpful, we'll continue to some further assessment over the next one to two sessions.

How does video therapy work?

I have a lot of experience with video therapy as during the pandemic this was the only mode of therapy available. We found that people took to it quite quickly, the main thing is to have a good internet connection and a private space where you won't be disturbed (just as in face to face therapy). Video therapy can be a lot more convenient without the need to travel, and research is showing that the outcomes are equal to face to face therapy.

What if I need to cancel?

Provided you give 24 hours notice of cancellation there is no charge for cancellation, otherwise missed sessions will incur the full session fee.

Hopefully this has given you an idea of what CBT with me entails. If you have any further queries please don't hesitate to contact me.