Some common questions about therapy are addressed below. 

Please send an email with any questions you may have.

 

Frequently Asked Questions on Counselling & Psychotherapy
 

1. What is meant by counselling & psychotherapy?

2. What issues can therapy help with?

3. What are the different types of therapy?

4. What is Person-Centred Counselling?

5. What should I expect during a counselling session?

6. How long does therapy usually last?

7. Is therapy confidential?

8. Are therapists in the UK regulated?

9. How do I choose a therapist?

10. How can I access therapy?

11. Should I use Online or In-Person Therapy?

12: How much does therapy cost?

13. What if therapy isn't working for me?

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1. What is meant by counselling & psychotherapy?

Counselling and psychotherapy are therapeutic practices that provide a confidential and supportive environment for individuals to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. While both aim to promote emotional well-being, “counselling” typically focuses on short-term support for specific challenges, whereas “psychotherapy” generally involves deeper, long-term work addressing underlying psychological patterns and issues.

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The terms “counselling” / “counsellor”, and “therapy” / “therapist” are often used interchangeably in the UK. Whichever terms is used, the purpose is to facilitate personal insight, emotional healing, and positive change.

(Personal Note: I am qualified counsellor and psychotherapist with a Level 5 Higher Professional Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy, and am a Registered Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, the BACP. I engage in open-ended, long and short-term work with clients, depending on individual needs - which are explored in an initial assessment).

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2. What issues can therapy help with?

Therapy can assist with a wide range of issues, including:
 

• Mental health issues such as feelings of depression and anxiety.

• Stress related to work or personal life.

• Relationship difficulties.

• Bereavement, grief and loss.

• Self-esteem and confidence issues.

• Physical health concerns and problems.

• Substance abuse and compulsive behaviours.
   

You don’t need to be in crisis to benefit from counselling. Irvin Yalom’s existential approach highlights how therapy can help individuals confront fundamental human concerns, known as the 'existential givens':
 

• Death: The awareness of mortality can provoke anxiety but also motivate a more meaningful life.

• Freedom: The responsibility of shaping one’s own life can feel overwhelming.

• Isolation: Despite connections, each person ultimately faces their experiences alone.

• Meaninglessness: Without inherent meaning, individuals must create their own purpose.
   

These existential givens often shape emotional distress, influencing anxiety, depression, and feelings of emptiness. Counselling can provide a space to explore these themes, helping clients develop greater self-awareness, acceptance, and a deeper sense of purpose in life.

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(Personal note: My training provides a framework for working with a wide range of issues - and a client's initial "presenting issues" may open up into exploration of other things that were previously hidden, or out of awareness. In addition I undertake formal continuing professional development (CPD), and wider reading around topics of interest, to enhance and expand my knowledge and skills. In addition to my core qualifications, I have completed training modules in areas that have included, e.g.: grief, anger, anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse and addictive behaviours, depression, eating disorders, relationships, the science of well-being, coaching, online counselling, and clinical supervision. This work is ongoing).

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3. What are the different types of therapy?​

There are various therapeutic approaches (“modalities”). Some of the most common ones are:
 

• CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy): A structured, directive, short-term approach that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviours. 

• Psychodynamic Therapy: Explores unconscious influences from past experiences and relationships, helping clients gain insight into their emotions and behaviour over a longer term.

• Humanistic Therapies: Emphasize personal growth and self-actualization, with non-directive approaches like Person-Centred Therapy focusing on facilitating change with conditions of empathy, non-judgment, authenticity, and client empowerment. (See more details in the section below).

• Integrative Therapy: Combines techniques from various modalities to tailor treatment to the individual’s needs, providing flexibility and a holistic approach to healing.
   

Some clients have a preference for a particular modality based on their interests, previous experience, recommendations, or personality. Many clients, especially those new to therapy, can benefit from speaking to a range of therapists in order to find a good theoretical and personal fit.
 

(Personal Note: I trained as a person-centred (humanistic) counsellor and psychotherapist, and hold a Level 5 Higher Professional Diploma (2 years). My Level 3 training (1 year) was in psychodynamic psychotherapy. The diploma training included modules on psychodynamic, CBT, existential, and other modalities. I have worked with a wide range of presenting issues, and have undertaken continuing professional development in order to develop and maintain relevant knowledge and skills. While I am a person-centred counsellor, I am not rigidly constrained by any doctrine. My style reflects my personality - I am curious by nature, and actively engage in the therapeutic relationship - I am not a "blank slate" therapist).
 

4. What is Person-Centred Counselling?

Developed by Carl Rogers, Person-Centred Counselling is a humanistic approach that encourages self-healing by providing an empathetic, supportive space. The therapist provides a non-directive, non-judgmental and empathetic environment, providing the conditions that facilitate “self-actualisation” (the innate tendency of individuals to grow, develop, and fulfil their potential).
 

Emerging in the mid-20th century, it was a response to the more directive and analytical methods of psychoanalysis and behaviourism. Rogers based his approach on empirical research, using recorded therapy sessions to analyse what contributed to meaningful client change. His work led to the identification of the “core conditions” - empathy, congruence, and unconditional positive regard - which have since been widely recognized as essential for effective therapy.

By focusing on the client’s internal capacity for growth, Person-Centred Counselling continues to shape modern therapy practices and has influenced integrative approaches that prioritize the therapeutic relationship as a key factor in successful outcomes.
 

5. What should I expect during a counselling session?

In a typical session (after an initial assessment), you'll have the opportunity to bring up and explore whatever arises for you in a confidential setting - either in-person, or online. The therapist should listen empathetically without judgment, and engage congruently, to help you explore and process your feelings and thoughts.

Sessions last for 50 minutes (which allows time for the therapist between sessions). The therapist will manage the session and bring it to an end on time, while being mindful of your needs. Sessions are usually held weekly, although this can vary based on individual needs (e.g. alternate weeks), and over time (e.g. as needs change, or as the client moves towards ending therapy).
 

6. How long does therapy usually last?

The duration of therapy varies depending on the individual's goals (e.g. short-term relief, or long-term change) and the nature of the issues being addressed (e.g. whether relating long-standing patterns, specific challenges, and / or reactions to life events) . Jonathan Shedler references research that suggests meaningful psychological changes come after up to 21-40 sessions for most clients, and that longer engagements resulted in more clinically significant change. The research found that:
 

• 50% of clients experience meaningful improvement by 21 sessions.

• 75% of clients experience meaningful improvement after 40 sessions.
   

The conclusion is that, for the majority of clients, successful therapy outcomes can be expected after a sustained period of weekly sessions, over a number of months. Therapy is a collaborative process, and the length of treatment is typically discussed between you and your therapist.

 

(Personal Note: I do not stipulate any minimum number of sessions, but am happy to discuss timeframes in the context of an initial assessment. For reference, the average number of sessions per client in my practice (to March 2024), was 15. Approximately 75% of my clients completed therapy within 20 sessions, 25% had 21 sessions or more (15% had 41 or more sessions). 
 

7. Is therapy confidential?

Yes, confidentiality is a fundamental aspect of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists are ethically and legally obligated to keep information shared during sessions private. However, there are exceptions if there's a risk of harm to yourself or others, or if required by law. These exceptions should be clearly explained by your therapist at the outset.
 

(Personal Note: Sentia Well-being Ltd. has a privacy policy, and is registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO). I abide by the BACP’s ethical framework. Confidentiality is specifically addressed in the counselling contract).
 

8. Are therapists in the UK regulated?

Currently, the titles "counsellor" and "psychotherapist" are not legally protected in the UK, meaning individuals can offer services without formal regulation. This lack of oversight poses risks, as unqualified practitioners may offer therapy without adequate training or adherence to ethical guidelines. To safeguard clients, many professionals voluntarily register with organizations like the BACP (which is accredited by the Professional Standards Authority), which enforce ethical codes, require supervision, and mandate ongoing professional development.

Ensuring your therapist is accredited with a reputable body can provide assurance of their competence and commitment to professional standards. There have been calls for statutory regulation to ensure public safety and maintain high standards within the profession.

(Personal Note: I am a qualified counsellor in the UK, with a Level 5 Higher Professional Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy, and a level 6 Certificate in Clinical Supervision. I am a registered member of the BACP, a Senior Professional Member of the Association for Counselling and Therapy Online “ACTO”, a member of the Person-Centred Association, and of the European Network for Person-Centred and Experiential Psychotherapy and Counselling “PCE”).
 

9. How do I choose a therapist?

When selecting a therapist, consider the following:
 

• Qualifications: Ensure they have relevant training and certifications in counselling or psychotherapy (e.g. a degree, or a professional diploma at “Level 5” or above for private practice).

• Registration: Check if they are registered with recognized professional bodies such as the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) or the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP).

• Experience: Look for therapists who have relevant professional experience. In addition, life experience - and personal experience as a client in therapy - can also be important to confirm.

• Approach: Understand their therapeutic approach to see if it aligns with your preferences.

• Rapport: Assuming the boxes above have been ticked, rapport is an important, and very subjective, ingredient to look for in the therapeutic relationship.
   

It's also advisable to have an initial consultation to assess your comfort with the therapist. Its is often said that “the relationship is the therapy”, so having good rapport with your therapist is key. This means it can be a good idea to speak to a few therapists before making a decision.
 

(Personal Note: I am a qualified, person-centred counsellor in the UK, with a Level 5 Higher Professional Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy, and a level 6 Certificate in Clinical Supervision. I am registered with the BACP (and other professional bodies) and have worked with a wide range of presenting issues since I started seeing clients in 2019. Prior to that I worked for many years as a business consultant specialising in China, including 5 years living in Taiwan and Hong Kong. I have had several years of therapy myself, which is how I was inspired to become a therapist! I offer a no-cost introductory chat online).
 

10. How can I access therapy?

Therapy can be accessed through various avenues:
 

• Private Practice: Therapists offer private sessions, direct to clients, for a fee (some also offer concessionary rates). Many counsellors are listed in counselling directories, including: BACP Directory; Psychology Today; Counselling Directory.

• NHS Services: You can be referred by your GP or self-refer to NHS counselling services, though waiting times may apply. CBT is usually offered for up to 6-12 sessions.

• Charities: Some charities offer free or low-cost counselling services. Nationally this includes e.g. The Samarians, Mind, Childline, and Cruse Bereavement Support. There are also a range of groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous and other 12-step recovery programmes. A list of charities providing mental health support services can be found on the BACP website.
   

It's important to choose a route that aligns with your needs and circumstances.

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(Personal Note: I work in private practice, and operate through Sentia Well-being Ltd., which is a UK company that is owned and operated by me. I offer standard and concessionary rates (see below). My verified details can be found on a number of counselling directories, including those of the BACP, Counselling Directory, and Psychology Today). 

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11. Should I use Online or In-Person Therapy?

Both online and in-person therapy have their benefits and limitations, and the choice depends on individual needs and preferences:
 

• Online therapy: Provides greater accessibility, particularly for individuals in rural areas or those with mobility issues or time constraints. It is also often provided at a reduced cost. It allows clients to connect with therapists from anywhere, increasing options for finding a specialist who suits their needs. Research indicates that online therapy can be as effective as face-to-face therapy. Video calls (e.g. Zoom), phone calls, and text-based therapy all offer flexibility.
  
  The BACP notes that “working online and over the phone requires additional knowledge and different skills to those needed for face-to-face (in-person) practice. Practitioners working remotely should ensure that they are...competent to deliver the services being offered’.
   

• In-person therapy: Some clients find it easier to build trust and engage in deep emotional work when sharing physical space with their therapist. Non-verbal cues such as body language are more readily observed in face-to-face sessions, which can enhance understanding. However, in-person therapy can be less convenient due to travel time and location constraints. It can also be more expensive, due to travel and room rental costs.
   

Ultimately, both formats are valid and effective, and many therapists (who should have relevant training and certification) now offer a hybrid approach, allowing clients to experience both in-person and online sessions depending on their needs and circumstances.
 

(Personal Note: I offer both in-person (central and south London) and online (Zoom) sessions, and hybrid options. I am certified for online and telephone (OTP) work, and completed a comprehensive Online and Telephone Counselling Training Course that is mapped to the 2021 BACP and ACTO competencies for telephone and e-counselling. I am also a Senior Professional Member of ACTO, the Association for Counselling & Therapy Online).
 

12: How much does therapy cost?

The cost of therapy varies based on location, therapist experience, and session format[1]:
 

• In-person sessions In London, prices are often £70 to £150+ per session. Typically fees outside London range from £40 to £80 per hour.

• Online sessions generally range from £30 to £100 per session, depending on the therapist’s qualifications and specialisation.

• Low-cost options: Many charities and training clinics offer reduced-cost sessions, depending on circumstances and availability.

• NHS therapy: Free, but waiting lists can be long, and usually CBT is offered for a limited number of sessions (e.g. 6-12).
   

It’s advisable to check whether therapists offer sliding-scale fees, or free initial consultations, to determine fit before committing. It is also worth noting that some well-known online therapy providers incentivise therapists to offer more hours. Given the low rates of pay[2], this risks therapist burn-out and compromised services. In the UK many therapists hold that 20-25 client hours represents a full client load. It can be helpful to know how many hours a day or week a therapist is working.
 

(Personal Note: I offer concessionary and standard rates, as well as differential pricing for online and in-person sessions. For 2025 my concession and standard fees range from £65-£90 online, and £90-£110 in person. The concessionary rates are available on request, without the need for qualifying questions. Fees are updated in January each year, and are detailed on the website. I avoid multiple back-to-back sessions, and aim to see no more than 6 clients in a day, or 20 clients in a week).
 

13. What if therapy isn't working for me?

It's helpful to communicate openly with your therapist about your feelings regarding the progress of therapy. Sometimes, adjusting the therapeutic approach or goals can make a difference. If you continue to feel that therapy isn't beneficial, it may be worth considering a different therapist or modality. Your mental health and comfort are paramount, and finding the right fit is crucial for effective therapy.

If you have further questions or need personalized guidance, please don't hesitate to reach out. ​Or, to make a booking, either send an email with your preferences, or use the online booking form.

 

Footnotes:

[1] Based on research from ChatGPT 19/3/25

[2] BetterHelp compensates its UK-based therapists approximately £26.81 per hour, according to data from Indeed.com (via ChatGPT, 19/3/25)​