Frequently asked questions about starting therapy with a Clinical Psychologist

“Clinical Psychologist” is a title protected by law, and to use it a person must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). A Clinical Psychologist is a highly trained health professional who specialises in understanding and reducing psychological distress and supporting emotional wellbeing. We work with a wide range of mental and physical health difficulties, using psychological research and theory, specialist assessment and evidence-based therapies to help people make sense of their experiences and make changes that matter to them. Training usually takes around seven years or more: a psychology degree that confers Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) of the British Psychological Society (BPS); relevant clinical experience; and a three-year doctorate in clinical psychology that combines university study with supervised clinical work. Clinical Psychologists are also trained in research and in evaluating their own work, and many hold additional accreditations, such as BABCP accreditation in cognitive behavioural therapy.

“Therapist” and “counsellor” are not protected titles in the UK, so training and experience vary widely. Many counsellors and psychotherapists are highly skilled and registered with bodies such as the BACP or UKCP. A Clinical Psychologist holds a doctorate in clinical psychology and is regulated by the HCPC, with specialist training in psychological assessment, formulation and therapy for a wide range of difficulties, including complex ones. The doctoral training for Clinical Psychologists covers a range of therapeutic approaches, meaning an integrative approach can be utilised where most appropriate. They do not prescribe medication. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specialises in mental health and can prescribe medication.

Yes. Please contact me to arrange a free, no obligation 15 minute telephone call to see if I might be the right Clinical Psychologist for you.

We will take time to talk about what has brought you to therapy and what you hope might change. You do not need to prepare anything or find the perfect words, and you decide what you share and when. I will ask about what you are experiencing now, your history and the support you have around you, so that I can begin to understand your situation. We will also talk through how I work and the practicalities, and you are welcome to ask me anything. By the end we will have a first shared idea of what might help, and decide together how to move forward.

I offer face to face therapy from Own Zone, 9 Lansdown, Stroud, GL5 1BB. Remote online sessions are also available.

Research shows that therapy by video can be as helpful as meeting in person for many people. Many clients choose online sessions because they fit more easily into a busy life, and you can join from the comfort of your own home.

Sessions are 50 minutes long and are usually scheduled weekly. Therapy duration may be short, medium or long term, depending on your needs and goals.

It depends on what you are experiencing and what you hope to change. Some focused difficulties can improve in around 6 to 12 sessions, while longstanding or more complex difficulties often benefit from longer-term work. We will agree a plan together and review it regularly, so that the work always reflects your needs and goals.

My fee reflects the doctoral-level education and additional specialist training I have completed, as well as the many years of closely supervised clinical experience I have gained whilst working with individuals who have complex needs. As a Principal Clinical Psychologist in the NHS, the fee represents the level of specialism I have developed throughout my career.

My fee also covers the time I spend on your therapy outside of our sessions: preparing for and reflecting on our work, attending regular supervision, and continuing my professional development. I am regulated by the HCPC and accredited by the BABCP, which means my work meets the professional and ethical standards of both bodies.

Sessions are charged at £140 per 50-minute session.

I am a registered provider with many leading health insurers including Bupa, WPA and AVIVA.

I appreciate that life can be unpredictable and you may need to cancel or rearrange your appointment, which I am happy to facilitate. However, sessions cancelled with less than 48 hours’ notice will incur the full fee.

I welcome self-referrals and referrals from professionals. Privately funded clients and clients covered by numerous private health insurers are accepted.

Yes. What you share is treated as confidential and kept securely, in line with professional standards and data protection law. There are limited exceptions: if I believe you or someone else is at risk of harm, or if I am legally required to share information. Wherever possible I will talk to you first. You can read how I store and use your information in my privacy policy.

No. I am unable to respond to emergencies or provide urgent crisis support. Please see who to contact in a crisis.