Psychotherapy, counselling, consulting at

St Albans : Hatfield : Crouch End

For an appointment or enquiries please telephone: 01727 752147

Frequently Asked Questions
- and Answers!

What problems do you deal with?

All our therapists have been trained to help you work through all types of emotional difficulty. If we feel that a particular problem is outside our expertise, or could be more usefully addressed through a different type of help, we will tell you and help you find someone more suitable.

How does counselling/psychotherapy work?

By offering a reliable and confidential relationship in which to explore past hurts, present difficulties, and future hopes and fears. It can offer support during times of crisis or transition, and also help in making sense of present difficulties that may stem from past experiences. In so doing , it is possible to find ways of understanding and managing difficult feelings or situations differently.

When I look at other people I think they have more problems than me. How do I know if my problem is big enough to come and see a counsellor?

If it is bothering you it is worth talking about. Sometimes even a few sessions can make a lot of difference.

I've been to counselling before and I didn't get on with the counsellor. Was that my fault and is it worth trying again?

To talk about intimate details of your life you need a good atmosphere. If you don't feel comfortable with the counsellor or therapist it is going to feel difficult to really confide in them. Finding someone you feel you can get on with with is very important . If you do feel very anxious talking about yourself (or certain aspects of your difficulties) do let us know this when you come.

I think I want to talk to a female counsellor. Is it alright to say this?

Of course. It is helpful for us to know if you have a particular preference to see a male/female therapist, so do make us aware of this when you make contact.

How long would I have to come for?

Each session usually lasts for 50 minutes (for individual sessions) and 60-90 minutes for couples / groups.. Sometimes people come for weekly sessions, sometimes more or less frequently. This is for you and your therapist to discuss and decide together as to what might be most useful for you as an individual.

If you want to set a limit on the number of sessions you receive, you can say so. Otherwise it is for you and the therapist to agree as you go along.

I have a very busy life. Will I have to wait around like I do at the doctor's surgery?

No. We all make a point of starting and ending our sessions at the agreed time. We do not have a waiting room so if you arrive early, we would ask you to wait outside until your appointment time. To protect your anonymity it is also better if you don't bump into another client, so we leave gaps between appointments to make sure this doesn't happen.

I don't want anyone else to know what I've talked to you about. Can you guarantee this?

Confidentiality is very important to us. We know that trust is essential and trust is difficult if you are wondering who else will know. There are 2 areas which fall outside the confidentiality agreement and these are: intention to harm other people and intention to harm yourself. There may be occasions when we feel that it would be useful to consult with your doctor or psychiatrist but we would usually get your permission before doing this.

More information

If you would like further general information on Psychotherapy or Counseling please visit the United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy (www.ukcp.org) or the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (www.bacp.co.uk)

If you would like to discuss counselling and psychotherapy services or your own circumstances please call us on 01727 752147 or email winterberry@live.co.uk