FAQs

How do I know if I need therapy?

You don’t have to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. You might be feeling stuck, overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward. Therapy can offer a space to explore what’s going on beneath the surface, understand yourself more deeply, and find new ways of responding to life’s challenges.

What happens in a Gestalt therapy session?

Gestalt therapy sessions are a collaborative and relational space where we explore what is happening for you in the present moment. We might talk about current challenges, relationships, emotions, thoughts, or patterns you notice in your life.

A key part of Gestalt therapy is the relationship between therapist and client. Together, we pay attention to what happens between us, as this can offer valuable insights into how you experience yourself and others in your wider life.

Gestalt therapy is experiential, meaning that we do not only talk about your experiences but also explore how they are felt and lived in the moment. This may include noticing emotions, body sensations, thoughts, or gently exploring new perspectives and possibilities.

There is no expectation that you need to have everything figured out before coming to therapy — we can begin wherever you are and explore together what feels important.

What kinds of difficulties can Gestalt therapy help with?

Gestalt therapy can support people who are experiencing a range of emotional and life challenges, including anxiety, stress, low self-confidence, relationship difficulties, grief, life transitions, feeling stuck, or a sense of disconnection from themselves or others.

It can also be helpful for people who want to understand themselves more deeply, explore recurring patterns, develop greater self-awareness, or feel more authentic and connected in their lives.

You do not need to be in crisis or have a diagnosis to benefit from therapy. Many people come because they want support in understanding themselves and finding new ways of responding to life’s challenges.

Can Gestalt therapy help with relationship difficulties?

Yes. Relationships are an important part of Gestalt therapy, as we are always shaped by our experiences with others.

Therapy can help you explore patterns in your relationships, such as difficulties expressing your needs, fear of conflict, feeling disconnected, or repeating situations that leave you feeling stuck. It can provide a space to develop greater awareness of how you relate to yourself and others, and explore new ways of communicating and connecting.

Can Gestalt therapy help with people-pleasing and boundaries?

Yes. Many people come to therapy because they find it difficult to say no, prioritise their own needs, express their feelings, or know what they truly want.

Gestalt therapy can help you explore where these patterns may come from and develop greater awareness of your needs, feelings, and choices. Through a deeper understanding of yourself, you can begin to build healthier boundaries and more authentic ways of relating to others.

What’s the difference between counselling and psychotherapy?

Counselling generally focuses on support and problem-solving in the here-and-now, often short-term. Psychotherapy, including Gestalt therapy, explores patterns, emotions, and relational experiences, helping you understand yourself more deeply. My work blends supportive counselling-style listening with experiential Gestalt methods.

What happens in the initial free video call and first therapy session?

The initial free 20 minute video call is a brief chance to introduce ourselves, talk about what you’re hoping for, and see if working together feels like a good fit. It’s not therapy, just an informal chat with no pressure.

The first session tends to be more open and exploratory, focusing on your present experience, feelings, and what’s coming up for you in the moment. It’s a relational and flexible space to start getting to know yourself and the therapy process.

How long does therapy usually last?

Sessions typically last 50 minutes and are usually weekly. The length of therapy varies depending on your needs — some people find a few sessions helpful, while others choose longer-term work. We’ll regularly check in to make sure therapy is meeting your goals.

Do I need a diagnosis to start therapy?

No diagnosis is needed to begin therapy. Whether you’re facing a specific mental health issue or simply feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or wanting to understand yourself better, therapy can be a supportive space for you.

There is no commitment - this is simply a space to ask questions and get a feel for how I work