FAQ- Asking Questions is a Great First Step
Below are some of the most common questions about therapy with me.
Asking questions is a great first step towards healing from trauma. Knowledge and curiosity create choice, agency and empowerment. Sometimes referred to as psycho-education, knowledge can enhance self-awareness, reduce fear and uncertainty, support exploration without judgement, and allow you to make choices that feel right for you. So, let’s begin!
How do I know this will work for me?
Great question. It is completely natural to wonder whether counselling with me will be the right fit for you.
This is why I offer a free 30-minute initial consultation, to help you get a sense of what the therapeutic process might feel like before making any commitment.
Your initial consultation can be held in person or via WhatsApp video call—whichever is most convenient for you. This session is completely free and comes with no obligation.
During this initial consultation session, we can explore:
– Any questions or concerns you might have;
– Whether we feel comfortable working together;
– What you are hoping to gain from counselling;
– What your expectations and goals are.
Get in touch for your FREE no-obligation 30 minute initial consultation. Early mornings (from 7am) sessions available.
To ensure that this service remains accessible to all prospective clients, the offer permits one cancellation, rescheduling, or non-attendance per client.
How many sessions will I need?
If starting with Rewind Therapy for PTSD symptoms , most people need 2–3 sessions, either weekly or every two weeks, followed by a 3-month check-in session. We will book these ahead of time so the spacing supports the best possible outcome.
For support with developmental trauma, I usually recommend a minimum of 12 sessions. These can be weekly or fortnightly, and some people like to begin weekly and slow the pace later on.
This type of therapy is often open-ended, so you are welcome to continue for as long as it feels helpful. Many clients take therapy in blocks, with natural pauses in between.
Depending on your needs, we can blend both approaches into a therapy plan that feels right for you. For example, you might choose to begin with several open-ended sessions before deciding whether the Rewind Technique would be helpful. Alternatively, you may prefer to start with Rewind to address PTSD symptoms related to one or more traumatic events. Once those symptoms have eased, you will likely find it easier to engage in longer-term trauma therapy.
What will the therapy be like?
Therapy can be in-person in Bournemouth or Poole (in one of my two therapy rooms or walk-and-talk) or remote via WhatsApp videocall.
The therapy will be tailored to your needs and we can explore together what works and-equally important- what does not work for you.
I integrate several therapeutic approaches:
– Rewind Therapy for PTSD – this can help stop or reduce your nightmares, flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, anxiety and avoidance after a traumatic event;
– Trauma-informed stabilization treatment (TIST) that helps clients recognise their symptoms as adaptive responses to trauma;
– Creative therapy – using non-verbal expression like drawing, working with stones, visual cards, etc;
– Somatic awareness – noticing how your body communicates trauma triggers and symptoms;
– Attachment focused – exploring how childhood experiences might impact your adult relationships;
– Internal Family Systems – help identify, accept and heal the different parts of yourself;
– Compassion-focused – help with issues of shame and self-criticism.
Get in touch for a FREE no-obligation 30 minute initial consultation. Early mornings (from 7am) sessions available.
What training have you had?
Below is a list of some of the training I have undertaken over the years. I see training as an on-going necessity and I regularly attend new conferences, workshops and courses.
– Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling- Level 4 Counselling and Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body (CPCAB);
– Certificate in Rewind Technique – IARTT (International Association for Rewind Trauma Therapy);
– Rewind Technique- NHS Training Course;
– Resistance and Stuckness- Trauma Informed Strategies for Breakthrough with Janina Fisher;
– Complex Trauma Certification Training Level 1 & 2 (CCTP/CCTP-II) with Janina Fisher;
– Treating Complex Trauma with Internal Family Systems (PESI 2 -day Intensive Workshop) Frank Anderson.
Get in touch for a FREE no-obligation 30 minute initial consultation. Early mornings (from 7am) sessions available.
