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FAQs
Get answers to your questions about therapy and our services.
FAQS about therapy
Who do you see / what clients do you take?

We treat anyone regardless of age or gender who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, and/or associated conditions.

If we feel that another service may better fit your primary difficulty, for instance alcohol and drugs, we may refer you on to another service, to ensure you get the best possible care. We are also not a wraparound service and cannot provide appropriate support for high risk clients, who should be referred to appropriate services. If you are in a crisis or immediate danger, please call 111.

Do you provide medical services?

We have a GP specialist. Dr Plant is a GP who has trained in mental health and can prescribe medication.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist, a psychologist and a psychotherapist?

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who have completed further training in mental illness. They are trained in assessment and diagnosis of mental disorders and can prescribe medication. Psychologists cannot prescribe medication.

Psychologists have usually trained for 6-8 years and have a masters or doctorate in psychology with an arts or science background. They are trained in assessment and intervention through talk therapy. They typically use a structured approach.

Psychotherapists tend to deal with longer term therapy for deep-rooted issues such as childhood trauma or relationship problems. Psychotherapy is a less structured intervention and is focused more around dialogue and your childhood.

How many sessions will I need?

Each treatment session is for 50 minutes. As part of your treatment plan, your Clinician will discuss with you how regularly and for how long you will need to come in.

What happens in therapy?

There is a range of treatment options and your clinician will work with you to create an effective individualised treatment plan. However for the majority of our clients and patients, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is the most effective treatment that leads to life-long management of Anxiety Disorders. CBT is a structured, short-term from of therapy, encouraging patients to challenge distorted thinking and unhelpful patterns by modifying emotions, behaviours, and thoughts.

Do you offer Group Therapy or Peer Support Groups?

For FAQ’s about our Peer Groups please visit Peer Support Groups.

Can I bring my family?

We do not provide family therapy, however you are welcome to bring a support person to your session.

What can I do to prepare for my first session?

The first session is a chat to get to know what is bringing you to the service. You may want to consider what information you feel is important for your psychologist to know. Some clients even bring in timelines they have written up, or reports from other health professionals.

You may also consider what you want to know. Don’t be afraid to ask questions at any point.

Finally, it’s also a good idea to think about what you want to get out of therapy before meeting with your therapist. It is likely that you and your therapist will discuss goals for therapy.

How can I get the most out of therapy?

Attend regular appointments as and when recommended, and take any medication as and when instructed by your doctor. Ensure you complete the home activities that your clinician and you agree on. Be realistic and patient about your progress – recovery takes time, try not to put added pressure on yourself to be healed immediately.

Please let us know if you are unable to attend your appointment – any cancellations must be done with a minimum of 24 hours’ notice, or a late cancellation fee may apply.

Is my information kept private?

We assure complete confidentiality to all of our clients. Exceptions to this are if there is a safety or legal issue with regard to the client or others. In this case under our Duty of Care commitment we would aim to discuss the issue with the client and as necessary contact the relevant support services.