1. What’s the difference between a Counsellor, Psychotherapist, Psychologist, and Psychiatrist?

These titles may sound similar, but have different meanings:

• Counsellors help people explore challenges in a safe, non-judgemental space. It’s about more than just learning coping strategies; counselling also helps you make sense of the deeper dynamics, experiences, and underlying factors that influence how you feel, think, and react to things in the present.
• Psychotherapists often work at greater depth over a longer period, focusing on complex or longstanding emotional patterns and early experiences.
• Psychologists (particularly clinical or counselling psychologists) are trained at the doctoral level to assess and treat mental health conditions using evidence-based methods such as CBT.
• Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can diagnose mental health conditions and prescribe medication where appropriate.

As a neurodivergent-affirming integrative counsellor, my focus is on helping you understand yourself more deeply, recognise patterns, and create lasting change, not just manage symptoms.
 

2. What issues can counselling help with?

I work with individuals, companions and couples at different life stages. They may be experiencing anxiety, grief, low self-esteem, life transitions, relationship difficulties, and more. 
 

3. What is counselling with you like?

Many clients describe having counselling with me as both gentle and empowering, a process to gain clarity, reconnect with themselves, and move forward with greater self-awareness and resilience. I aim to create a space where you feel genuinely heard, understood, and supported without judgment. We’ll work together to explore what’s happening for you, make sense of the patterns and underlying factors that shape your thoughts and emotions, and find ways to create lasting change.
 

4. What happens in the first session?

The first session is an assessment session. We’ll discuss what’s brought you to counselling, what you’d like to achieve, and how we can best work together. It’s also a chance to ask questions and see if I’m the right fit for you.

5. How long does therapy last?

As progress is not linear, there’s no fixed time scale. Some may benefit from short-term work (6–12 sessions), while others choose longer-term therapy (15+ sessions) for deeper exploration and sustained change. We’ll review progress regularly to make sure therapy meets your needs.

6. How should I make payments?
You can pay by bank transfer or in cash. If you need to cancel or reschedule, I kindly ask for at least 48 hours’ notice (except in exceptional circumstances). Cancellations with less than 48 hours’ notice are subject to a 50% fee, as this time is set aside specifically for you and cannot easily be filled by another client.

7. Is counselling confidential?

Yes, everything you share is confidential and handled according to GDPR and NCPS ethical guidelines. The only exceptions are situations involving serious risk of harm to yourself or others, or legal obligations such as safeguarding.

8. Is parking available at your Cambridge counselling practice?

Yes, free on-site parking is available at The Willow Bough Room, Vision Fitness Girton (Camboro Business Park, Oakington Road, Girton, Cambridge). There are nearby public transport links if you prefer not to drive. 

9. Is your counselling room accessible?
The counselling room is located at The Willow Bough Room, Vision Fitness Girton. There is a small step up at the entrance, so while it may be manageable for some, it might not be fully accessible for all wheelchair users. If accessibility is a concern, please let me know. I’m happy to discuss options such as online sessions or other arrangements to ensure therapy remains accessible to you.

10. What if I’m in crisis or need urgent help?

If you ever feel unsafe or in crisis, please contact 999, NHS 111 or go to your nearest A&E. You can also call Samaritans (116 123) or Mind for support. I’m not available 24/7, but I can help you find the right long-term support once you’re safe.

Still have questions?

Get in touch or arrange a free initial chat to discuss how I can support you.