Frequently Asked Questions
Getting Started & Practicalities
Is my information confidential?
Your information and the content of your sessions are confidential. There are a few exceptions related to risk of harm to self or others but these will be explained in our initial consultation.
Where are sessions located?
In-person sessions will be held in the centre of St Peter Port. Sessions are also available online via secure video platforms.
What are your fees?
The fee for an individual 50-minute counselling session is £75 per session.
Understanding Psychodynamic Counselling
How does counselling help?
Counselling helps by providing a safe, confidential space to process complex emotions and develop practical tools for managing life's challenges. Helping you gain clarity and freely express yourself in a non-judgmental environment.
What is Psychodynamic Counselling?
Psychodynamic Counselling is a form of talk therapy that helps you understand how your past experiences and "unconscious" thoughts (the feelings and patterns you may not even realise you have) shape how you act and feel today. It aims for deep-seated change by uncovering the root causes of distress.
How does it differ from CBT?
While Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on immediate symptom relief and changing current thought patterns, psychodynamic therapy delves into your personal history to understand why those patterns exist.
What are the key concepts of Psychodynamic Counselling?
Uncover Hidden Patterns: Gain insight into why you repeat certain behaviors or feel "stuck".
Past & Present Connection: Understand how early life events still influence your current choices.
Relationship Focus: Use the connection with your therapist to understand and improve how you relate to others.
Emotional Depth: Move beyond managing symptoms to achieve profound, long-term personal change.
What to Expect in Sessions
How long does therapy take?
This will be determined on an inidividual basis according to your needs and is dependent on many factors, but Psychodynamic work is often medium-to-long term. Short-term models may last up to 12 sessions, while deeper work can continue much beyond that.
Do I have to talk about my childhood?
Yes, because early relationships—especially with caregivers—often set the template for how we relate to others as adults. Understanding these links is key to making lasting changes.
What is "Free Association"?
This is a core technique where you are encouraged to speak freely about whatever comes to mind without censoring yourself. This helps bring unconscious thoughts and patterns to the surface.