FAQ's
Telephone: 020 8896 9864email: info@therapyinlondon.org
How long do I need to be in therapy?
This depends on how much time and commitment you want to give to the process and your own ideas about therapy. But it does need to be talked about in the first session; also the client's idea of how long they want to be in therapy can change. Short term therapy where you agree on the number of sessions does tend to focus on a defined issue and to some extent be solution focused. Open ended work provides more space for the whole process to unfold in its own time.
What is the difference between psychotherapy, counselling and therapy?
Counselling tends to be associated with more short term and focused work, and psychotherapy with more open ended work. Therapy is a word that covers both counselling and psychotherapy.
How do I know what I say is confidential?
All personal information disclosed in therapy is confidential, nor will any information be passed on to a third party that could identify a client except under exceptional circumstances such as being asked for information by a Court of Law. The only time a therapist would discuss material from a therapy session is in supervision. If a client has doubts about this, it is important they raise the matter with the therapist. See ‘Confidentiality and ethical practice’
What happens in the initial session?
The primary aim is for the client and therapist to see if they can work together. This involves the therapist facilitating the client in telling their 'story' and the problem that has brought them into therapy. This may take more than one session, but once they have agreed to work together, the therapist will negotiate a verbal contract with the client.
How do I know if the therapist is the right person to see?
It can be helpful if you have talked to friends and read something about therapy so you have some idea which kind of therapy would suit you. It is also important to ask the therapist questions about their training, experience and qualifications and what national organisation it is that has accredited them to practice. But in the end you have to decide whether this person you are going to work with is genuine and competent, and is someone you can talk to and trust. This is usually more important than the particular theoretical model the therapist works with.
Can I finish therapy when I want to?
Yes, you may finish at any time. But therapy often brings up painful memories and emotions which the therapist will encourage you to explore. It does therefore require a certain commitment and a desire to carry it through. But in the end it is the client's choice to finish the therapy when they see fit and for the therapist to support them in this.
