There are different types of counselling approaches. My primary therapeutic approach is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), an evidence-based method that focuses on altering detrimental thought patterns and behaviors. CBT is a collaborative approach where the client and therapist work together. This also involves some tasks to complete outwith therapy, although these will be agreed with you during each session.

Additionally, I incorporate techniques from third-wave CBT modalities like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.

CBT is a cognitive behavioural therapy. This means that it works with cognitions (thoughts/images) and looks at the cycle of how these impact actions, and emotions.

For example, an individual may have had previous experience of  events such as bullying at school, which impact on their view of themselves and others, leading to core beliefs such as a "I am unloveable".

In day to day life, this may lead to thoughts such as "no one really wants me to attend the party" or "people don't really like me, they are just putting up with me".

CBT will examine any evidence for these thoughts and look at unhelpful thinking patterns which may be impacting. For example, an individual with 'mental filter' unhelpful thinking style may focus excessively on one negative encounter and discount many positive enounters. 

CBT will also look at how these thinking styles may impact behaviours. For example, behaviours which may follow may include not attending events or not engaging with people, which may increase isolation and low mood, and make it difficult for individuals to gather new evidence to challenge previous negative beliefs. 

Once we have an awareness of these, we will then work together to take small steps to implement change.

I use a collaborative approach to work with clients, respecting your autonomy. I may be the expert in CBT, but you are the expert in you! We will work together to ensure that you are challenged, but supported. You may be asked to step outside your comfort zone at times, as this is necessary for change, but we will do this together and you will be supported to work at your own pace. 

Therapy is delivered online using the Zoom platform. This allows you to access therapy from the comfort of your own home, this helps overcome the barriers caused by low mood or anxiety, which can make it difficult to leave home and attended face to face therapy. This also allows for easier access around other commitments such as childcare.

I also realise that some people are anxious about using Zoom, and being seen online. There is no obligation to put on your camera if you are not comfortable with this.

There is a possibility of face to face therapy in South Edinburgh (EH16). Please contact me if interested in this.

During your first session, you'll have the opportunity to discuss your concerns and goals for therapy with myself. This initial meeting helps me to understand your needs and develop a treatment plan.

Short answer - it depends! How many sessions that are required will depend very much on your goals for therapy.

CBT is a shorter term therapy than some other types of counselling however and as rough guide, the National Institute for Health and Care (NICE) guidelines for most of the conditions we treat generally suggest between 3-4 months of treatment, although this can be slightly more or slightly less deepening on condition and severity. 

In some cases, clients can start with 2 or 3 goals, and then realise that there are other things that they wish to work on. In this case, more sessions may be required, however I would generally recommended taking a break to use the tools that you have acquired so far, and returning to therapy if needed. This can help avoid becoming over-dependant on therapy.

You can schedule a session by contacting us through our website contact form, or email.

As well as day time appointments, some limited evening and Saturday morning appointments may be available. 

Online therapy costs £49 per session. This is delivered through Zoom.

There may be some low cost spaces available (see next section).

I realise that stresses about finances can be detrimental to mental health and wellbeing, and that NHS waiting lists can be lengthy, thus leading to feelings of hopelessness.

Therefore, I keep a limited number of low income spaces available for people who are finding it difficult to afford therapy. These are on a pay as you can basis with clients paying from £15 session, depending on what you feel you can reasonably afford. These spaces are based on trust, and no proof of income will be required.

Please contact me for information on this.

I currently work with adults aged 18 plus.