Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Getting Started: My Approach, Style, and Method

This section answers the most common questions about how I work and why my approach is focused on active, lasting change.

How do you describe your style of practice?

My style is best described as Relational-Integrative and actively challenging. I combine deep psychodynamic insight with focused, practical techniques (like CBT and Solution-Focused work). I act as a critical friend: I am warm and supportive, but I will directly challenge the defenses and patterns that are keeping you stuck.

What is 'Relational-Integrative' Psychotherapy?

It means we believe that all emotional pain is rooted in past and present relationships (the Relational Matrix). The integrative part means we don't just talk about the past; we actively work in the present to interrupt those old patterns and equip you with practical tools to achieve your goals.

Why do you focus so much on emotions, or 'feelings'?

We focus on feelings because emotional avoidance (often called Affect Phobia) is the root of most psychological problems. Your emotional world may feel unsafe due to past experiences. Our work is to safely process and integrate difficult emotions (like anger, need, or grief) so they become sources of strength and clarity, not fear.

What does 'challenging the client' mean in a safe way?

It means I am an active participant. We work to identify the enactments—the rigid, self-defeating relational patterns you bring into the room. I will gently, but firmly, point out when these patterns emerge between us so you can choose a new, healthier response in real-time. This is where the most powerful therapeutic change occurs.

Do you work with Attachment Theory?

Yes, Attachment Theory is a core pillar of my practice. We use your early attachment experiences (secure, anxious, avoidant) as a roadmap to understand your current relational conflicts. The goal of our work is to move you toward a place of earned secure functioning, helping you feel grounded and safe regardless of your partner’s behaviour.

Practicalities: Sessions, Fees, and Logistics

This section provides essential administrative details to ensure clarity and professional boundaries.

How long are typical sessions? All individual psychotherapy sessions are 50 minutes in length. Punctuality is essential to maximize our time together.

How often will we meet? To ensure maximum efficacy and build the necessary therapeutic depth and momentum, we meet for therapy sessions weekly or fortnightly depending upon your needs and budget.

What are your fees? Session fees are currently £55 per 50-minute session (£35 concessions, subject to availability). We will confirm the exact fee during our initial consultation call.

How do I pay for sessions? Fees are payable no later than 24 hours prior to your scheduled appointment. Payment is accepted via BACS/Direct Bank Transfer/PayPal. Details are provided upon commencement of our work.

What is your cancellation and missed session policy? If you need to cancel a session, I require a minimum of 24 hours notice. Sessions cancelled with less than 24 hours notice, or missed appointments, are charged at the full session fee, as the time slot is reserved for you.

Do you offer in-person or online sessions? To ensure maximum convenience and accessibility, sessions are conducted face to face at my private office in Preston or online via secure video call. This allows for consistent and confidential therapeutic work regardless of your location.