FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What happens in the first session?
The first appointment is a consultation session rather than a commitment to ongoing therapy.
It gives us an opportunity to talk about what has brought you to therapy, what you are hoping for and whether my approach feels appropriate for you. You can share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with, and you are welcome to ask questions.
The consultation is also an opportunity for both of us to consider whether we feel we could work well together. There is no expectation that you will decide to continue simply because you have had a consultation.
Do I have to dance or move in therapy?
No.
Although I am a Dance Movement Psychotherapist, you don’t need to dance, exercise or have any particular ability or experience with movement.
Movement in therapy can be very subtle. It might involve noticing your posture, breathing, gestures or physical responses to something we are talking about. Sometimes we may explore movement more actively if that feels useful to you.
You are always involved in deciding what feels appropriate. Talking can remain an important part of our work together.
What is Dance Movement Psychotherapy?
Dance Movement Psychotherapy is a form of psychotherapy that recognises the close relationship between our psychological and embodied experience.
We don’t experience emotions, relationships and memories through our thoughts alone. Our bodies are involved too, and sometimes we experience or communicate something physically before we have words for it.
My work uses this embodied perspective alongside talking and relational psychotherapy. You don’t need to understand Dance Movement Psychotherapy before you begin — we can explore what it means for you together.
What does embodied psychotherapy mean?
For me, embodied psychotherapy means paying attention to the whole of your experience — thoughts, feelings, relationships and what you notice happening in your body.
This might include noticing tension, changes in breathing, restlessness, a sense of holding back, or other physical responses that arise as we talk.
We aren’t trying to analyse every physical sensation. Rather, we can become curious about what you notice and whether it helps you understand yourself differently.
How long are sessions and how much do they cost?
Sessions are 60 minutes and cost £60 per session.
I do not currently offer concessions, although I review this periodically.
Do you offer online or in-person therapy?
I work primarily online, with adults across the UK.
I occasionally have some availability for in-person sessions in rural Cheshire. The intial consultation is always on line.
How does online therapy work?
Sessions take place by video. You’ll need a reasonably private and comfortable space where you can talk without being overheard, together with a stable internet connection.
Because my approach is embodied, we may also consider how you can position yourself so that you have enough space and freedom to move if movement becomes part of our work.
Many people appreciate the convenience of being able to access therapy from home, particularly when working with a therapist whose particular approach may not be available locally.
How often will we meet?
Weekly sessions often provide a useful rhythm and continuity, particularly at the beginning of therapy, but there isn’t one arrangement that suits everyone.
We can talk about what frequency feels appropriate for you and review this as our work develops.
How long will I need therapy?
There isn’t a fixed answer to this.
Some people come to therapy for a relatively short period to explore a particular difficulty, while others find that longer-term work gives them the space to understand more longstanding patterns.
We can discuss what you are hoping for and review together whether therapy continues to feel useful.
Is therapy confidential?
What you share in therapy is treated as confidential and handled with care.
There are some circumstances in which confidentiality may need to be limited, for example if I have serious concerns about your safety or the safety of someone else, or where I am legally required to disclose information.
If I ever needed to consider sharing information, I would aim to discuss this with you wherever possible.
What if I need to cancel a session?
I ask for at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or rearrange a session.
Cancellations with less than 24 hours’ notice may be charged in full. I understand that unexpected circumstances can arise, and we can discuss these if they occur.
Can I ask questions before deciding whether to have a consultation?
Absolutely.
When you complete the enquiry form, there is a section where you can include any questions you have about therapy or working with me. I’ll respond by email, usually within 2 working days.
You can also download my therapy information pack, which contains further information about my approach and practical arrangements.
How do I make an enquiry?
The first step is to complete the contact form. You can tell me a little about what has brought you to therapy, let me know what times generally suit you and include any questions you have.
I’ll respond by email and, if it seems that my approach may be a good fit, we can arrange a consultation session.