Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect from my first session ?
Our initial session is designed to last 50 minutes. This time is dedicated to you, allowing you to openly share your concerns while I guide you through the client-therapist agreement, ensuring a collaborative and supportive journey ahead.
Learn more about expectations for yourself and the role of the therapists here
How long is a therapy session ?
Each therapy session typically ranges from 50 minutes to 1 hour
How soon will I start noticing changes in therapy ?
Progress in therapy is unique to each individual, influenced by the depth of personal exploration. If an issue has been around for a while, it may take time to uncover its core. Embracing patience and engaging consistently in the therapeutic process is key. Together, we’ll navigate your journey towards self-discovery, ensuring realistic expectations and meaningful changes.
Is therapy confidential ?
Absolutely. Confidentiality is a cornerstone of my therapeutic practice. Your privacy is of the utmost importance. As a standard practice, all information shared during our sessions is kept strictly confidential. There are, however, specific situations outlined in our privacy policy, such as a client posing a danger to themselves or others, suspicion of abuse, or legal requirements, where confidentiality may need to be breached. These exceptions are discussed thoroughly with clients to ensure transparency and understanding. Your trust and comfort are our priority, and we’re committed to providing a safe and confidential space for your therapeutic journey
How do therapist handle real-life encounters with clients ?
Therapists establish parameters with clients, ensuring mutual comfort during real-life encounters.
Are there any laws governing confidentiality ?
As a therapist governed by the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy), I adhere to strict confidentiality standards, including compliance with European GDPR laws and U.S. HIPAA regulations; consequently, any discussion of a client with others requires written permission from the client.
What is therapy like ?
Therapy is a personalised and empowering journey toward self-discovery and positive change. In your first session, expect your therapist to guide rather than solve your problems, focusing on your personal growth and introspection. Be prepared for an initial interview-like conversation, where your therapist will ask about your coping mechanisms, symptoms, and goals.
Emotionally, therapy can be intense as it involves uncovering buried memories and feelings. This emotional depth is a normal and crucial part of the therapeutic process. While not every session will be equally intense, therapy is an ongoing and gradual process.
Therapy encompasses various types, such as psychoanalysis, behavior therapy, cognitive therapy, humanistic therapy, and integrative therapy. As an integrative psychotherapist, I work with different modalities tailored to each individual uniquely, providing diverse tools for healing.
To make the most of your therapy experience, be kind to yourself, communicate openly with your therapist, reflect on your thoughts and behaviors, and close sessions with a plan for the next steps. It’s essential to commit to the process and give therapy a chance to unfold, as healing takes time.
In the broader context, therapy requires commitment, honesty, and a willingness to explore your inner self. Don’t be afraid to switch therapists or therapeutic approaches if you don’t feel a connection. The therapy journey involves self-reflection after each session, recognizing that emotions may need time to recover.
Overall, therapy is a valuable and transformative experience that allows you to better understand yourself, make positive changes, and navigate life’s challenges with newfound strength and resilience.
Is therapy right for me ?
Therapy is a personal choice driven by various reasons. People may seek it to address long-standing psychological issues, anxiety, or depression. Life changes like divorce or career shifts can also prompt therapy. Many choose therapy for personal exploration and growth. Working with a therapist offers insight, support, and strategies for challenges such as depression, anxiety, body-image issues, conflict, grief, stress, and life transitions. Ultimately, therapy is for anyone interested in enhancing life through self-responsibility, self-awareness, and positive change.
Book to see Kareen
I warmly extend an invitation for a complimentary 15-minute consultation, where we can have an open and heart-to-heart conversation about your goals and aspirations. It’s a wonderful opportunity for you to share your thoughts, and for me to offer my recommendations. This meeting is a chance to ask any questions you may have and explore the possibility of embarking on this journey together. Most of my clients have found this initial meeting incredibly valuable.