What to Expect from Therapy
Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and it’s natural to have questions about what the process might involve. I offer therapy using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), depending on what feels most helpful for your situation.
Both approaches aim to create a space where we can slow things down, bring your experiences into awareness, and begin to make sense of patterns that may be affecting how you feel day to day.
Below is an outline of how therapy typically works.
Assessment Session
The first session is an opportunity for us to begin understanding what has brought you to therapy and what you would like support with.
During this session, we may explore:
- the difficulties you are currently experiencing
- how these experiences are affecting your thoughts, emotions, and daily life
- past experiences that may still be influencing how things feel in the present
- What you hope might change through therapy
This session also gives us space to discuss whether CBT, EMDR, or a combination of approaches might be the most helpful way forward. It is equally an opportunity for you to ask questions and get a sense of whether working together feels right for you.
Treatment Sessions
Treatment sessions usually last 50–60 minutes and typically take place on a weekly basis.
Therapy provides an opportunity to pause and look at your experiences from a different perspective. By slowing things down, we can begin to notice patterns in thoughts, feelings, and behaviours that may have developed over time. Bringing these patterns into awareness allows us to explore new ways of responding that can gradually reduce their impact on your daily life.
Depending on your needs, sessions may involve:
- exploring patterns in thinking and emotional responses
- learning practical strategies to manage difficult thoughts or feelings
- gradually approaching situations that feel challenging
- processing distressing memories using EMDR where appropriate
- reflecting on progress and adjusting the focus of therapy over time
Therapy is always shaped around your individual circumstances. If you are living with a long-term physical health condition or other factors that require flexibility, we can adapt the pace and structure of sessions where possible.
How Long Does Therapy Last?
The length of therapy varies from person to person and often depends on the nature of the difficulties you are experiencing and what you would like to achieve.
As a general guide, many people attend between 6 and 20 sessions, although this can vary. Some people find that a shorter period of focused work is helpful, while others prefer to take more time to explore and practise new ways of responding.
We will regularly review how things are progressing so that therapy continues to feel helpful and aligned with your goals.
Where Sessions Take Place
I currently offer therapy online via video call, allowing you to attend sessions from the comfort and privacy of your own space.
For many people, online therapy provides a convenient and accessible way of receiving support without the need to travel.
Taking the First Step
If you are considering therapy, you may already have taken an important first step by exploring your options.
If you would like to learn more about how therapy could support you, you are welcome to arrange a free 15-minute introductory telephone call or get in touch via the contact page enquiry form. This gives us the opportunity to briefly talk about what you’ve been experiencing and whether working together might feel like the right fit.
Common Questions About Starting Therapy
Many people feel a mix of curiosity and nerves before starting therapy — completely normal! Here are a few questions that often come up:
- Can I change my mind about the type of therapy I receive?
Absolutely. Therapy is flexible. We can adjust the approach if something isn’t working for you, whether that’s CBT, EMDR, or a mix. Your therapy, your rules (within reason — I do like to keep it safe and structured!). - What if therapy brings up difficult emotions?
Let’s be honest — therapy can stir things up. That’s part of the process. But you won’t be left to flounder. We’ll slow things down, work through it together, and I’ll make sure you’re supported the whole way. And yes, I’ll probably drop a cheeky comment here and there to remind you we’re human — because sometimes a little humour helps when life gets messy. - Is therapy confidential?
Yes, almost everything we discuss stays between us. There are a few important exceptions (for example, if there’s a risk of serious harm to yourself or someone else). Think of it like a very safe space with a few legally required “oops, I have to tell someone” clauses. - What is “homework”?
“Homework” in therapy is just a fancy word for trying out some of the things we talk about in sessions in real life. Think of it as little experiments to see what works for you. Don’t worry — it’s not a school test, and no one’s grading you. It’s just a way to practice and make the changes - How soon will I feel better?
Ah, the million-dollar question. Therapy isn’t magic, but it can help you feel lighter, more confident, or more in control sooner than you might expect. Progress is different for everyone — some notice changes quickly, others gradually over a few weeks. The good news? We work at a pace that suits you, so you’ll feel supported along the way.
