Frequently Asked Questions
Could you tell me more about how the sessions work?
Sessions last 50 minutes and are usually held at the same time each week to provide consistency and a supportive structure for the therapeutic process. Sessions are typically weekly. I do not offer less frequent sessions, as regularity is important for therapy to be effective. I usually suggest beginning with a minimum of six sessions. The length of the therapy contract will depend on your needs and with be negotiated and reviewed between us.
Sessions can take place either face-to-face or online, depending on what suits you best.
What can I expect from the first session?
The first session is a chance for us to meet and begin getting to know each other. I may ask some questions about your background and what has led you to seek therapy, and we will talk about what you hope to gain from the process. It is also an opportunity for you to see how it feels to work with me. Finding the right therapist is important, so there is no obligation to continue after this initial meeting.
What are your fees and how can I pay for my sessions?
Each session costs £80. Payment is due at the end of each session by bank transfer. An invoice will be issued after each session.
Do you offer reduced fees or concessions?
I offer a limited number of reduced-fee places for students and for those on lower incomes or experiencing financial difficulties. These are considered on an individual basis and are subject to availability.
What happens if I am late to my session?
If you arrive late for your session, we will still begin when you arrive, but the session will finish at the originally scheduled time. This means the session may be shorter, and the full fee will still apply. This policy helps maintain the therapeutic structure and ensures that other clients’ appointments are not disrupted.
What happens I need to cancel the session?
I will require at least 48 hours’ notice if you need to cancel a session. If you are unable to give at least 48 hours’ notice , the full fee remains payable. Any missed appointments without notice are charged at the full rate.
How many sessions can I cancel?
You may cancel up to six sessions within a 12-month period without charge. Further cancellations may be subject to the full session fee. However, I understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise, and I will do my best to offer another appointment during the same week. If we are able to reschedule, the session will not be treated as a cancellation.
Are sessions confidential?
All sessions are confidential, and your privacy is treated with the utmost care. Anything discussed during our work together will remain private and will not be shared with anyone without your written consent. The only exceptions to this are where there is an immediate risk of serious harm to yourself or others, or where disclosure is required by law (for example, by a court order). In such situations, I would aim to discuss this with you first wherever possible.
How do online sessions work?
I use zoom for online sessions, which is a secure provider. I will send you set up details before our first session.
Do you have a notice period if I would like to finish therapy sessions?
You are welcome to end therapy at any point; however, I ask for notice of a minimum of one session. The aim of this is to provide time to review our work together and to end in a safe, thoughtful and healthy way.
What do I do if I need to contact you outside of the session?
If you need to contact me outside of our sessions, please do so via my email - info@carawatsontherapy.com and I will respond as soon as is convenient and will aim to do so within 48 hours. The nature of this contact would be in the event you needed to alter timings of our next session, rather than personal therapy, which will only be carried out in the context of the agreed session times.