How do I know if this therapy is right for me?

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Before booking a session, I provide a free 20-minute introduction either by telephone or online via zoom in the comfort of your own home, in which we can explore what you wish to get out of therapy and introduce ourselves. This introduction also provides space for you to ask any questions about me and how I work to ensure I am the right therapist for you.  To book a free introduction, email me at abbey@therapywithabbey.co.uk or send me a message using the 'Book a Call' page. 

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How do I know when to see a therapist?

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Deciding to start therapy can feel like a massive step, and it’s totally normal to be a bit unsure. We all have our ups and downs, but if you’re starting to feel like you’re constantly wading through treacle, it might be time for a chat. Whether life has thrown you a proper curveball or you’re just finding it a struggle to keep on top of the basics like work, your relationships, or even just getting a decent night's sleep and eating well you don't have to just 'grin and bear it.' If the mental strain is starting to feel too heavy, I’m here to help you lighten the load.

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What if I've had therapy before and it didn't help?

 

​That doesn't mean therapy isn't for you. If you went for a meal and the restaurant messed up the order you would not never have that meal again, you would just try a different restaurant instead.  Every therapist is different, different therapy approaches feel different, private therapy vs NHS or organisation therapy feels different. The relationship between you and your therapist is one of the biggest factors in whether therapy feels helpful. If you have not got control of what therapist you have, if they aren't the right fit for you that can influence how you feel.  Sometimes, finding the right therapist can make all the difference. 

 

 

How much do sessions cost? 

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Hourly sessions start at £60 with concessionary rates available for students and those receiving certain benefits/low-income support, which will be discussed upon booking. ​

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How often are sessions? 

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How often we meet is totally up to you there’s no 'one size fits all' here. Most people find that a 50 minute session once a week works best to keep the momentum going, but we can have a proper chat about what fits your life during our first call. You can have as many or as few sessions as you need.

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How many sessions will i need? 

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How ever ever many you feel like you need. Some people come for a few sessions around a specific issue, while others benefit from longer term therapy. We'll regularly review how you're feeling, and you're always in control of how long you continue.

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What is best online or in-person?

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Again this is up to you. Some people engage better in person as they don't have to worry about people at home overhearing them and like the separation between home and therapy. However some people also engage better online due to the comfort of your own home and it already being a safe space for you. I also say you can do both test them out see what works for you. 

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Why would I talk to a therapist instead of a friend?

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Don’t get me wrong, having a good moan to your mates over a brew is brilliant and so important. But sometimes, you need something a bit different. While friends are great for a bit of support, a therapist offers a totally different kind of space one where it’s 100% about you, with no fear of being a 'burden' or worrying about what they'll think.

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• A therapist has professional training

• Therapists are trained to listen without judgment, ensuring the focus remains on your well-being and growth. 

• A therapist has objectivity and confidentiality, whereas friends may have personal biases and emotional involvement, limiting their ability to provide objective advice.  

• Therapists maintain firm boundaries that allow them to focus entirely on you.

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Can you help in an emergency? 

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The service I provide is not intended for crisis situations or urgent needs. You can contact your GP or If you feel that you are at immediate risk of harm then please call 999 or visit your nearest Accident and Emergency Department. Alternatively, find a local NHS urgent mental health helpline in England- https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/mental-health/find-an-urgent-mental-health-helpline.  If you feel that you are in crisis or require additional support between sessions you could contact The Samaritans that runs 24/7 on 116 123 or via email: jo@samaritans.org. 

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What happens if I need to cancel a session? 

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I understand life throws us curveballs, and you might not be able to attend a session unexpectedly. I do have a policy for last-minute cancellations, which will be discussed in our first session if you wish to proceed with me as your therapist. 

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Do you do diagnostic assessments?

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Think of our sessions as your safe space, a place where you can offload exactly what’s on your mind without any judgment or fear of it going elsewhere. My job is to be right there with you while you explore all those tricky thoughts and feelings. Just so you know, I don’t do the 'clinical' side of things like formal diagnoses or medical assessments; that’s usually a job for psychologists or psychiatrists. My focus is purely on you as a person and helping you navigate your world, rather than ticking boxes or giving you a label. 

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