FAQs
I have never had therapy before. How do I start?
A first step in starting therapy is to select a therapist that you believe might be a good fit for you. Profiles for all our therapists are available on this website on the Find A Therapist page. Alternatively please submit an enquiry via one of the forms on our Contact page so we can assist you with selecting a therapist that fits your availability and any particular concerns. You can also phone 01189 070420. It’s not unusual to see more than one therapist for a first session before choosing someone. A comfortable working relationship with your therapist is of greatest importance.
What is the difference between counselling, psychotherapy & psychology?
Counselling can focus on a specific presenting problem over a short or extended period of time (depending on the severity), while psychotherapy offers a deeper exploration of issues and can extend over a period of months or be open-ended. Counselling can provide empathic, non judgemental support through a life transition such as bereavement or separation. Psychotherapy is sometimes seen as more deeply reflective as it deals with interpersonal functioning. Psychological therapy often incorporates cognitive-behavioural therapy or other scientifically-based methods for bringing about change.
Our aim is to support each client to choose a therapist and approach that is the best fit for them.
How often are sessions?
It is best practice for counselling or psychological therapy sessions to take place at weekly intervals, at least during the initial phase of therapy when consistency, relationship building and momentum are important. As therapy progresses and enters a more maintenance phase, fortnightly sessions might be considered if client and counsellor deem this appropriate. Psychotherapy can be weekly or twice weekly, also potentially moving to fortnightly during a maintenance phase.
How long does therapy last?
Counselling usually works with a specific problem over an agreed period of time (generally a minimum of 6 sessions) but can be open ended, while psychotherapy is generally open ended and lasts over a period of months or years. Psychological therapy can be either short or longer term.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of counselling and psychotherapy ranges from typically £60 to £80 per session.
Psychology or CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy) ranges from £70 upward per session.
You can find the cost for each of therapists listed on their individual profile pages on the Find A Therapist page.
What if my partner and I are thinking about Couple Counselling?
When a relationship is in difficulty, one partner may believe more strongly than the other that couple counselling could be useful. For the therapy to be helpful it’s important that both parties are willing to commit to exploring difficulties together. Couple counselling offers support in a neutral space, providing each partner with an opportunity to voice their perspective and work collaboratively towards mutual understanding. At Mind Garden we have experienced therapists trained specifically in couple counselling.
What is the next step?
Contact us on 01189 070420 or enquire about an appointment using the following forms:
