FAQs about therapy – your questions answered

These terms are often used interchangeably, and in practice there’s a lot of overlap. That said, they can differ in depth and focus. 

Counselling is often shorter term and more focused on a particular issue – such as navigating relationship challenges, adjusting to a loss, or feeling stuck in a particular situation. It’s a space to explore what’s happening now, find some clarity and build tools that help you move forward.

Psychotherapy tends to be longer term and more open-ended. It offers space to go deeper, exploring patterns that may have been with you for a long time – like anxiety, low self-worth, relationship struggles or the impact of past experiences. We might gently explore how your past shapes your present, with the hope of creating real change in how you relate to yourself and others.

Whether you’re looking for support with something specific or want to explore things more deeply, counselling and therapy offer a confidential, compassionate space to do that – at your own pace.

I offer both short- and longer-term work, depending on what feels right for you.

Following our introductory free 20-minute call, our first full session will provide an opportunity for us to get to know each other. You’ll have space to share what’s brought you here, and I’ll tell you more about how I work. There’s no pressure to continue if it doesn’t feel right for you.

There’s no fixed rule. Some people come for a handful of sessions, others stay longer. We’ll check in regularly to make sure it still feels helpful and relevant to you.

I offer a sliding scale, not a fixed fee – so we’ll agree on a rate that feels fair and manageable for you. Standard sessions are £70 (Sevenoaks/online) or £85 (London). If you’re able to pay more – for example, £100 or above – your contribution helps make therapy accessible for others by supporting the lower-cost sessions I aim to offer (typically £25-£40).

You can read more about my approach to fees here.

Payment is usually by bank transfer. We’ll talk about what’s easiest for you.

I offer sessions in person in both Sevenoaks in Kent and London, as well as online.

I also offer walk-and-talk sessions outdoors in/around Sevenoaks on a Saturday morning – let me know if that’s something you’re interested in.

Weekly sessions usually work best to support continuity and depth in the process. That said, we can find a rhythm that fits your needs and life.

Please give at least 48 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule. Missed sessions or late cancellations are usually charged at the full rate, although I understand life isn’t always predictable.

Yes – confidentiality is at the heart of what makes therapy a safe space. What you share stays strictly between us, except in rare cases where I have a legal or ethical duty to act – for example, if there’s a serious risk of harm. We’ll talk this through in more detail at our first session.

I work with individual adults (18+) from all backgrounds and walks of life. If you’re looking for couples therapy, child or adolescent support or group work, I can recommend trusted colleagues.

I completed a four-year postgraduate diploma in Humanistic Psychotherapy and Counselling at Homa London, known for its rich and contemporary approach to humanistic therapy.

Before that, I trained for two years at the well-established Gestalt Centre in London.

During my six years of psychotherapy training, I had weekly therapy myself – and I continue to do so. For me, this wasn’t just part of the course requirements – it was, and still is, a vital part of being an ethical and self-aware therapist.

I also have a supervisor with whom I meet fortnightly (at least) to discuss my client work.

And I engage in continuous professional learning and development to ensure I continue to grow and develop as a safe pair of hands for my clients.

I am a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP) – membership number 01008360.

I am also an accredited registrant member (MNCPS) of the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS) – membership number NCPS4309

I abide by their respective ethical frameworks.

I’m committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive space for all. I support antiracism, LGBTQ+ rights and social justice more broadly, and continue to reflect on how my identity as a white straight cis man shapes my practice. This is ongoing work, and I take it seriously. Whoever you are, you’re welcome here. 

I’m not able to offer emergency services. If you’re in crisis or need urgent help, please contact your GP, call NHS 111, go to A&E or call Samaritans on 116 123.

I follow GDPR and all relevant data protection laws. You can read my full privacy policy here.