A few answers to help you know what to expect. Please contact me if there is anything else you would like to ask.
What is bibliotherapy?
Bibliotherapy is a method of helping yourself by reading specific articles, journals, books etc that have been written specifically to help you. I have listed some helpful books and links on this site.
If I have sexual problems does that mean I am psychiatrically disturbed or have serious personality difficulties?
No, it does not! Many people at some stage of their lives are troubled by sexual problems. I have written more about sexual issues on my website.
What is Psychosexual Therapy?
Sex Therapy is a specialised therapy for individuals and couples who may be having problems with sexual issues. There is a programme of tasks which, if appropriate, you will be asked to do at home. Initially it is recommended that you make an appointment to meet me and discuss the issues that are troubling you and I will then assess and suggest ways of helping you.
If I come alone initially and you think it would be beneficial for my partner to attend to, is this possible?
As I am a trained and qualified couple counsellor I am used to working with couples. However, if I see an individual for a period of time it can be very difficult for the partner to feel comfortable as we will have already built a rapport. So I suggest that very early in the therapy, if it seems helpful, a partner is included. Otherwise I will go on working with you and then, as a couple, you can seek out a couple counsellor to do some relationship work together.
The difference between Counselling and Psychotherapy
The words counselling and psychotherapy are often used to describe overlapping ways of working. Our sessions offer space to explore your feelings, experiences and the difficulties affecting your life.
I work with individuals, couples and small family groups, offering short- and longer-term counselling, and draw on person-centred, cognitive behavioural and psychodynamic approaches.
Is therapy ever physical?
No – At no point will there be any physical contact in your sessions.
Will I have to take off my clothes?
No – At no point will I ask you to remove any item of clothing.
Do you use Cognitive-behavioural therapy techniques?
Yes. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is one of the approaches I draw on, alongside other therapeutic models.
What techniques are used in behaviour therapy?
The approach we use will depend on the issues you bring and what we agree together. Please ask me about the techniques that may be appropriate for you.