How do I support those struggling with Depression

Frequently asked questions

Is Human Givens an accredited therapeutic approach?

Human Givens is accredited by the PSA, the superior Governing body which accredits the likes of BACP. The Human Givens Institute (HGI) was also one of the six organisations, along with BACP, UKCP and NCS, involved in developing the current SCoPEd framework. The SCoPEd framework transparently sets out the core training, practice and competence requirements for counsellors and psychotherapists working with adults.

If after the initial 15 minute consultation, I wish to proceed with my first session, what needs to happen?

Simple. Click on Book an Appointment and choose a date and time that works for you. You will receive an email with a google form link where you are required to fill in some additional details before any session can take place. You only need to fill in this form once and it is required by any legitimate practitioner.

Who do you work with?

I currently work with individuals or couples over age 18. I do not currently work with children and I do not have the required training (yet) to work with Neurodiverse clients successfully.

What can I expect from the session?

Our sessions are 55 minutes long. The sessions are all about you and it is completely up to you what you wish to discuss. It is important that we build rapport so you feel comfortable talking about topics which are personal to you and there will be no judgement. Our sessions are centred around helping you.

Do I need to sign up to a certain amount of sessions?

No. All Human Givens Psychotherapists work with their clients session by session. When we come to a natural end then the therapy shall stop however, of course my door is always open if sessions need to resume. It can be really healthy to have check ins from time to time.

When do I pay?

You are always charged post session. A payment link will be sent automatically after your completed session and payment is required within 48 hours. Human Givens Psychotherapists do not charge upfront or take payment for ‘bulk sessions’ i.e. 6 sessions booked upfront.

What should I look for in a therapist?

Someone who has qualifications to their name and not someone who has done a course for a couple of hours and is then calling themselves a counsellor or therapist. Secondly, someone who you feel you can connect with. This is your personal journey and you must do what’s right for you and that includes choosing a therapist that you feel you can build a rapport with and working with someone who makes you feel heard.

What kind of therapy do I need?

The only framework I follow is the Human Givens approach as it is the modality I truly believe in.

Do you prescribe medication?

Psychotherapists, with only a Psychotherapy qualification, are not trained or qualified to prescribe medication. It would be a GP or a medically qualified Psychiatrist who can subscribe mental health medication.

What happens if I need to cancel?

No problem. If you cancel the appointment with at least 24 hour notice then you will not be subject to the cancellation charge. You can simply re-book on the booking calendar. If cancellations persist then I ask that you undertake Therapy when you are ready to commit yourself to it.

Is everything in our sessions confidential?

Yes. However, please note that as a practitioner, if I have any serious concerns about the safety of a client, the safety of others who might be endangered by a client’s behaviour, or the health, welfare or safety of children or vulnerable adults then I will advise my client that I will need to speak with an appropriate authority to seek guidance if confidentiality needs to be broken. The Department of Health lists the following guidance “Murder, manslaughter, rape, treason, kidnapping, child abuse or other cases where individuals have suffered serious harm may all warrant breaching confidentiality. Also, if information is requested from a third party i.e. a solicitor involved in a court case, I am under no obligation to share any information unless I have the clients consent to do so. Without the clients consent I would be breaking the Data Protection Act.

Can I decide to see a different therapist if we are mid-way through therapy?

Absolutely. If you feel that I am not the right therapist for you then I would encourage you to find another Human Givens therapist that may be more suited. Part of receiving effective therapy is building rapport with your therapist. This is your journey so it is important you do what you feel is right for you https://www.hgi.org.uk/find-therapist.

Are you an insured Psychotherapist?

Of course. My Professional Liability Insurance is underwritten by Markel International Insurance Company Limited.

What if my problems are ‘small’?

If you perceive your problems to be small then regardless of this, I am here to support and help you through them. It can be incredibly healthy to have therapy before your challenges get a little bigger which will no doubt result in the requirement of fewer sessions.

Are your sessions face to face or online?

I currently provide sessions online and I have a therapy room at Salomons Estate in Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN3 0TG.

If we have couples therapy, do you provide therapy individually for each person?

It is possible. However, should this be undertaken then please note that any conversations that occur in the individual sessions are completely confidential and autonomous from the couples session. Nothing that is discussed during the individuals sessions will be discussed in the couples sessions unless prior consent is provided or it is bought up by the clients themselves.

Do you work with Corporations?

Yes. Having worked in the Corporate world for 15+ years prior to becoming a Psychotherapist, I have a unique view into the type of mental health support organisations are provided. My view is that mental health in the workplace cannot be looked at in isolation and the HG approach would encourage employees to take responsibility for their wellbeing in a solution focussed way. I can work with organisations in a couple of ways.

• Therapist led half day workshop underpinned by the Human Givens Framework
• Therapist led talks underpinned by the Human Givens Framework

If you are a corporation and want to discuss how I could support your organisation then please email me in the first instance so we can schedule a time to speak.