Frequently Asked Questions

At our first meeting, which I call an assessment, I would like to hear from you regarding your problems, their impact on your life and more importantly what you are looking for from my side. Once I get a sense of this, I will walk you through what to expect in our therapy sessions.

This initial session typically involves:

• Understanding your current situation and concerns
• Discussing your therapy goals and expectations
• Explaining the most suitable therapy approach (CBT, EMDR, or BCT)
• Answering any questions you may have
• Planning your treatment schedule if you decide to proceed

The National Institute for Clinical & Health Excellence (NICE) has guidelines that are published by recognized experts in the UK. These guidelines pertain to the diagnosis and treatment of both physical and mental health problems and include recommended numbers of treatment sessions, which I usually adhere to.

Typical session ranges:

• CBT: Usually 12-20 sessions for most conditions
• EMDR: 8-15 sessions depending on trauma complexity
• BCT (Couples): 12-20 sessions or 10-session group course

However, this can vary greatly depending on individual circumstances, the complexity of your situation, and your progress.

I provide therapy in English, Tamil, Hindi and Urdu. This allows clients to express themselves in their preferred language, which can be particularly important when discussing sensitive or emotional topics.

Yes, I offer a free 15-minute consultation for new clients. This allows you to:

• Discuss your needs briefly and confidentially
• Understand which therapy approach might be most suitable
• Ask any initial questions about the process
• Get a sense of my approach and style
• Decide if you'd like to proceed with a full assessment

There's no obligation to proceed after this consultation.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a structured, time-bound therapy that equips you with strategies to deal with negative thinking patterns and unhelpful behaviors. By changing these patterns, you experience a positive shift in your feelings.

CBT is particularly effective for:

• Anxiety disorders (GAD, panic disorder, social anxiety, phobias)
• Depression and mood disorders
• PTSD and trauma responses
• OCD and related conditions
• Health anxiety and eating disorders

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) aims to resolve traumatic experiences that have had a detrimental impact on your wellbeing. The theory underpinning EMDR is summed up by the statement 'The body keeps the score'.

EMDR harnesses the natural REM sleep cycles to clear your headspace of emotional fallout from unpleasant, traumatic, or stressful events. It addresses both:

• Small-"t" trauma: Everyday stressful experiences that accumulate
• Big-"T" trauma: Major traumatic events or experiences

EMDR is highly successful in treating trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and phobias.

BCT is a structured, goal-oriented couples therapy where couples learn to recognize vicious cycles that maintain relationship distress and, more importantly, develop strategies to break out of these patterns.

BCT helps couples with:

• Conflict reduction and resolution
• Communication improvement
• Problem-solving and joint decision-making
• Rebuilding intimacy through Sensate Focus techniques

We also offer the "Enhancing Your Relationship" (EYR) course - a 10-session structured group program delivered online via Zoom.

The best therapy approach depends on your specific needs:

• CBT: Best for anxiety, depression, OCD, and changing thought patterns
• EMDR: Most effective for trauma, PTSD, phobias, and processing difficult experiences
• BCT: Designed for couples wanting to improve their relationship

During your free consultation or assessment session, we'll discuss your situation and recommend the most appropriate approach. Sometimes a combination of therapies works best.

Please email me for a bespoke quote as fees can vary depending on:

• Type of therapy required
• Individual vs. couples sessions
• Face-to-face vs. online sessions
• Package deals for multiple sessions

I offer competitive rates and can discuss payment options during your consultation.

I practice from two main locations:

• Banstead Practice: 148 High Street, Banstead SM7 2NZ (main location with free parking)
• Epsom Practice: 16 Waterloo Road, Epsom KT19 8EX (central location near station)

Both locations serve clients across Surrey and South London, including Sutton, Croydon, Kingston, Redhill, and surrounding areas.

Yes, I offer secure online therapy sessions that are just as effective as face-to-face sessions. Online sessions:

• Use GDPR-compliant video platforms
• Are available for all therapy types (CBT, EMDR, BCT)
• Include technical support if needed
• Offer more flexible scheduling
• Can be accessed from anywhere in the UK

Many clients find online sessions more convenient and just as beneficial as in-person meetings.

I typically respond to contact requests within 24 hours. Appointment availability:

• Free consultations: Often available within a few days
• First appointments: Usually within 1-2 weeks
• Ongoing sessions: Scheduled weekly or as agreed

I offer evening and weekend slots for added flexibility to accommodate work and family commitments.

Session lengths vary by type:

• Free consultation: 15 minutes
• Individual therapy: 50-60 minutes
• Couples therapy: 60-90 minutes
• Group sessions (EYR course): 90 minutes

Sessions are typically scheduled weekly, though frequency can be adjusted based on your needs and progress.

Absolutely. All communications are strictly confidential and processed in accordance with GDPR and professional therapy standards. Your information is never shared without your explicit consent.

The only exceptions are very rare circumstances where there are serious safety concerns, in which case I would discuss this with you first wherever possible.

If you're experiencing a mental health emergency or having thoughts of self-harm, please seek immediate help:

• Emergency Services: 999
• Samaritans: 116 123 (free, 24/7)
• NHS Crisis Team: 111
• Crisis Text Line: Text SHOUT to 85258

Your safety is the top priority, and these services are available 24/7.

For individual therapy (CBT/EMDR), sessions are typically one-to-one to maintain confidentiality and therapeutic focus. However, we can discuss involving family members in specific circumstances if it would be helpful.

For couples therapy (BCT), both partners attend sessions together as this is essential for the therapeutic process.

I understand that life circumstances can change. Please provide as much notice as possible when canceling or rescheduling appointments.

Cancellation policies will be discussed during your initial consultation and included in our agreement. I try to be flexible while maintaining a consistent therapeutic schedule.

I provide detailed receipts for all sessions, which many clients use for:

• Private health insurance claims
• Employee assistance programs
• Personal health records

Please check with your insurance provider about coverage for psychological therapy services. I can provide any documentation they require.