Frequently asked questions

How much do you charge and how long do the sessions last?

You can find all the information you need about the different session costs and time commitments here.

Are sessions at The Cove covered by Health Insurance?

As I work internationally I am not affiliated with any particular health insurance system and so clients who work with me, pay privately.  Some people are able to use the invoices I provide for reimbursement from their healthcare providers however this is something you would need to explore independently and something I can take no responsibility for.

What is the difference between coaching and therapy and do I need to decide which one I would like?

As a qualified therapist and coach, I use both approaches interchangeably depending on a persons goals so you do not need to specify your preference unless you have one.  I believe that there are some important shared core principles between coaching and therapy.  Both approaches are person-centred and empathetic. However, there are some differences.  In therapy the aim is to address problems and make them less impactful on a persons life, where as in coaching the aim is to help individuals create new opportunities and to get more out of life. 

How many sessions will I need?

This question is a bit like asking how long is a piece of string however usually I meet people between 5-12 times. It is very difficult to predict how many sessions will be needed because is depends on things like how long the issues have been around, what the goals of therapy are and how much energy you to have to put into place some of the things we discuss in between sessions etc.  You should rest assured that my approach is always to meet as least as possible to achieve sustained change. Often during our third session we review our work so far and this will give us both an idea as to how many further sessions we will need in order to achieve the goals you have set. 

If we start working together can I stop at any time?

Absolutely!

I’m still undecided about who to choose to talk to.  Any advice?

It is such a difficult decision about who to talk to because there are so many of us about.  I would firstly clarify that the individual is qualified and you can confirm this by ensuring they are registered with the correct organisations (click here to find our who I am registered with).  Secondly I would schedule an introductory chat and check out how accessible the person is. Thirdly and most importantly, I think you should trust your instincts and your connection with the person. You should ask yourself whether you could imagine opening up to that particular person?  Lastly, stay away from anyone who makes unrealistic promises or who demands a lot of money upfront.

At The Cove, if I meet someone who is undecided I usually ask them to consider committing to 3 sessions during which time we will have had time to get to know each other and our ways of working and hopefully you will have begun to notice some change.