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’s the difference between Gestalt therapy and CBT?
CBT is a structured, evidence-based therapy that focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thoughts and behaviours. It’s often short- to medium-term and works well for specific issues like anxiety, depression, and insomnia.
Gestalt therapy is more open-ended and relational. It focuses on your experience in the present moment, including your emotions, body sensations, and patterns of relating. It's particularly supportive for people who want to understand themselves more fully, explore identity, or move towards greater authenticity and self-expression.
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 therapy session itself differs depending on the approach:
For CBT, the first session usually includes a full assessment, including understanding your difficulties and gathering background information. We may also introduce the CBT model and set goals.
For Gestalt therapy, 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.
Can I choose between Gestalt therapy and CBT?
When starting therapy with me, you’ll choose either Gestalt therapy or CBT as your main approach. This helps keep the work consistent and focused. For clients in Gestalt therapy (which I offer as part of my training), we work within that framework exclusively. For CBT clients, I will use the CBT framework and interventions.
If you're unsure which approach might suit you best, we can discuss this during the free initial video call to find the right fit for your needs.
