FAQs
Below are commonly asked questions in relation to therapy and counselling psychology. If you feel that your question hasn't been answered please feel free to contact me.
What is a Counselling Psychologist?
Someone who has completed an undergraduate degree, most usually followed by a post graduate or Master's degree, and then finally a doctorate in counselling psychology. They are trained in at least two therapy modalities (e.g. CBT and Psychodynamic therapy), receive training and placement experience with assessments, formulations, delivering therapy, supervision and MDT working. They also have an understanding of medication and diagnosing to help better inform their client's overall therapy treatment.
What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing. It's a type of therapy that focuses on reprocessing past traumatic memories by using Bilateral Stimulation (BLS). This is done by activating both sides of the brain through the likes of tapping, eye movements or sounds, for example.
What therapy is best for me?
It's often best to arrange an initial free consultation call to determine what therapy you might be best suited to. Alternatively, it's often helpful to read about different therapeutic approaches. The two most common therapies that are often recommended in line with NICE guidelines for most mental health diagnoses (within the UK) are CBT and EMDR.
What is psychodynamic therapy?
Psychodynamic therapy often focuses on the relationship between the client and the therapist, understanding interactions, projections and defences. This then helps the therapist better understand the client's way of interacting in their everyday relationships. Depending on the psychodynamic model used, attachment styles are often considered to help the client better understand how they relate with others.
What is CBT?
CBT stands for cognitive Behavioural Therapy and is often the first line recommended therapy intervention, in line with NICE guidelines, within the NHS for mental health diagnoses. CBT focuses on how your thoughts and behaviours are connected, and how we often need to adapt, understand and alter both of these areas. It looks at common triggers, as well as cycles, and looking at how to break these patterns, whilst learning new skills and techniques.
How do I know if I need therapy?
If you feel that you are quite stuck, or are struggling with past memories, or are generally struggling in day to day life. However, it could be that you are in a good place in your life, but want to better understand yourself. It's important to remember that depending on the therapy, and what is discussed it can often be quite emotionally draining. Therefore, it's important to have a good support network around you. However, when beginning therapy, stability, skills, wider support and techniques are explored to begin with before any difficult memories or traumas are explored.
What is TF-CBT?
This stands for Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. It's a type of CBT where negative thoughts and behaviours are explored, whilst considering the impact of past trauma(s).
How many sessions will I need?
Within the NHS, the most common therapy offered is CBT where 6-12 sessions is usually the standard amount offered. However, with private therapy there is the scope for more sessions, a flexibility with days and times, as well as a choice of therapeutic approaches. Therefore, it's your decision how many sessions you would like, as well as frequency. However, your therapist should usually guide you if you feel you are unsure.