FAQ's

Psychodynamic psychotherapy is a form of talking therapy that focuses on understanding the patterns that shape the way you think, feel, and relate to others. Many of these patterns develop through our early experiences and relationships and can continue to influence us long after we've forgotten where they began. We may find ourselves repeating familiar difficulties in relationships, struggling with the same feelings, or reacting in ways we don't fully understand. Therapy provides a space to explore these experiences with curiosity rather than judgement. By developing a clearer understanding of what may be happening beneath the surface, it becomes possible to respond differently and create meaningful change.

People come to psychotherapy for many different reasons. You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, loss, addiction, or a significant life change. Equally, you may simply feel stuck, dissatisfied, or unsure why certain difficulties keep recurring in your life. You don't need a diagnosis or a clearly defined problem to begin therapy. Sometimes people seek therapy because they want a space to think about their experiences and make sense of feelings that have become difficult to carry alone.

Choosing a therapist can feel overwhelming. Alongside practical considerations such as location, availability, and cost, it is important to find someone you feel able to talk to openly. An initial consultation offers an opportunity for us to meet and think about what has brought you to therapy. It also gives you a chance to get a sense of how it feels to speak with me and whether working together feels like a good fit. You may find the following directories helpful when looking for a therapist: UKCP Psychology Today Counselling Directory

There is no set agenda for our sessions. You are free to bring whatever feels important, whether that is something happening in your life now, a recurring difficulty, a relationship, a memory, a dream, or a feeling that is hard to put into words. Together we pay attention to what emerges over time, including patterns in your thoughts, feelings, and relationships. We may also think about your experience of therapy itself, as this can often offer valuable insights. The aim is not to provide quick answers, but to develop a fuller understanding of your experience and create space for meaningful and lasting change.

The length of therapy depends on what brings you and what you hope to gain from it. Some people come for a relatively focused piece of work, while others choose longer-term therapy to explore more longstanding difficulties and patterns. We can discuss this together during our initial meetings and review it as therapy progresses. Therapy is an investment in yourself, and the pace and duration of the work will be guided by your individual needs.

Confidentiality is central to psychotherapy. I provide a private and confidential space where you can talk about experiences that may feel difficult to discuss elsewhere in your life. Any records are stored securely and in accordance with GDPR requirements. There are rare circumstances in which I may have an ethical or legal responsibility to share information, usually where there are serious concerns about your safety or the safety of someone else. Wherever possible, I would discuss this with you first.