Your first session

Starting therapy can feel uncertain, and it is normal to be nervous.

This page explains what happens, so there are no surprises.

Before we meet: the free intro call

We begin with a free 15-minute call by video or phone. You can ask anything, including how it works, what it costs and whether it might suit you.

There is no obligation, and I won’t ask you to tell your story. If you’d like to go ahead, we book your first session.

Getting ready to start

  • You’ll get a confirmation email with the address and directions, or your video link.

  • I’ll send, or go through with you on the day: a short client agreement, my Privacy Policy and a consent form about creative work and photographs.

  • Payment by bank transfer or card is due before the session.

On the day

In person: arrive a few minutes early. There is a comfortable waiting area with complimentary refreshments, and a private room for our session.

Online: join from a quiet, private space, ideally with headphones. Please test your video link beforehand, and tell me if you’d like help setting up.

What happens in the session

The session lasts 50 minutes.

  1. We settle in, and I explain how we’ll work, including confidentiality and its limits.

  2. I invite you to say what has brought you here and what you’d like to change. Go at your own pace.

  3. I ask some questions to understand your situation, [for example, what support you have, how things are affecting daily life, and any history that feels relevant]. You can decline any question.

  4. If it feels right, I may offer a creative way to explore something. This is always your choice.

  5. Before we finish, we talk about how the session felt and whether you’d like to continue.

  • Will I have to make art?

    No. Many first sessions are conversation only. No art skill is needed, and nothing you make is judged.

  • What if I don’t know what to say?

    That’s very common. Silence is fine, and I’ll help you find a way in.

  • What if I get upset?

    Feelings can come up, and that is part of the work. We go slowly, and you can pause or stop at any time.

After the first session

You decide in your own time whether to continue. Most clients meet weekly. We review how therapy is going together, [for example after six sessions], and you can change course or stop whenever you wish.

Practical details

  • Fees, cancellation and concessionary places: see Services and Fees.

  • Where: Islington (Barnsbury), [King’s Cross, from January] and online.

  • Cancellation: 24 hours’ notice.

Confidentiality

What you share is private, with a few legal and safety exceptions that I will explain at the start. You can read more in my Privacy Policy.

It can start here

Book a free intro session