Frequently Asked Questions
What happens at the initial appointment?
For teenagers and younger children, it is common for one or both parents to attend the initial appointment, or at least part of it. The psychologist will ask a few questions about what you are seeking help for and will take some time to talk about the psychological approaches they are trained in, as well as explaining confidentiality and safeguarding guidelines. Typically, a family tree will be completed, and you will also be asked a little bit about your childhood and any recent significant events that have occurred. You will probably also be asked what you have tried already to overcome any challenges, and what you have found helpful and unhelpful in the past.
For teenagers and younger children, it is common for one or both parents to attend the initial appointment, or at least part of it. The psychologist will ask a few questions about what you are seeking help for and will take some time to talk about the psychological approaches they are trained in, as well as explaining confidentiality and safeguarding guidelines. Typically, a family tree will be completed, and you will also be asked a little bit about your childhood and any recent significant events that have occurred. You will probably also be asked what you have tried already to overcome any challenges, and what you have found helpful and unhelpful in the past.
What is your cancellation policy?
Appointments cancelled with 48 hrs notice will not incur a charge. Appointments cancelled with 24-48 hrs notice will incur a nominal charge of £30. Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hrs notice will be charged in full. This gives the psychologist an opportunity to reschedule the appointment and cover the cost of cancellation.
Appointments cancelled with 48 hrs notice will not incur a charge. Appointments cancelled with 24-48 hrs notice will incur a nominal charge of £30. Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hrs notice will be charged in full. This gives the psychologist an opportunity to reschedule the appointment and cover the cost of cancellation.
What support is available in the event of a mental health emergency?
In the event of a mental health crisis, access emergency services, such as psychiatric assessment via your local Accident and Emergency Hospital. There are also free Mental Health crisis lines such as ChildLine (call 0800 1111) or the Samaritans (call 116 123). Psychologists are typically only available at the time of your scheduled appointments.
In the event of a mental health crisis, access emergency services, such as psychiatric assessment via your local Accident and Emergency Hospital. There are also free Mental Health crisis lines such as ChildLine (call 0800 1111) or the Samaritans (call 116 123). Psychologists are typically only available at the time of your scheduled appointments.
How long does therapy last?
It is different for each client, depending on several factors, such as the complexity of the presenting problem, the type of psychological approach used, the effectiveness of the intervention and the regularity of sessions. Progress is reviewed regularly, and collaborative decisions are made about the structure and length of the therapy process.
It is different for each client, depending on several factors, such as the complexity of the presenting problem, the type of psychological approach used, the effectiveness of the intervention and the regularity of sessions. Progress is reviewed regularly, and collaborative decisions are made about the structure and length of the therapy process.
Is what I say confidential?
With the exception of safeguarding concerns (we have a duty of care to help protect you or anyone you talk to us about from harm) the sessions are confidential, unless you consent to your therapist sharing information with other family members or health professionals for your benefit. If we need to communicate to other professionals or agencies regarding safeguarding concerns, we will discuss this with you first.
With the exception of safeguarding concerns (we have a duty of care to help protect you or anyone you talk to us about from harm) the sessions are confidential, unless you consent to your therapist sharing information with other family members or health professionals for your benefit. If we need to communicate to other professionals or agencies regarding safeguarding concerns, we will discuss this with you first.