Frequently asked questions
Here are the answers to some of the questions you may have:
1. How long do appointments last?
Individual or couples therapy appointments are generally weekly or fortnightly at the same time for 50 minutes or 90 minutes if preferred. Family appointments may be every 2-4 weeks and generally last 90 minutes. Please note - I normally see clients at Hampden House on Tuesday mornings or on Fridays. I don’t see clients at weekends or in the evenings due to room availability.
2. How much does therapy cost?
Individuals/ couples £55 for 50 minute session or £80 for 90 minute session. Families of 3 or 4 members £80 for 90 minute session. Occasionally clients may opt for a 2 hour session (£100). For larger families two therapists may be recommended: fees will be agreed in advance.
Fees can be paid at the time of the session or you can be invoiced monthly and pay by cheque or electronic transfer. Please note that I am trading as Older Mind Matters Ltd.
3. Does the building have disabled access?
Please be aware that Hampden House is a Victorian building with steps up to the entrance – if you or a family member needs facilities for disabled persons please check that access and faciities are appropriate.
4. Is our conversation confidential?
I practice confidentiality in all my clinical work. It is regarded as good practice for therapists to keep some notes about their clients, but these are kept in a secure cabinet. It is also good practice for therapists to have supervision with colleagues, and this will involve sharing some information about clients in a confidential meeting with my peer group.
There are some uncommon circumstances when it is a matter of public or professional duty to break confidentiality. This might be a situation involving self harm or actual/ potential risk of harm to family members or others. If possible I would ask the client for their consent before breaking confidentiality.
I normally talk about confidentiality when we first meet, but, if you have any queries, please ask me to clarify any doubts or answer any questions you may have.
5. What happens if I need to cancel an appointment?
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Cancellations within one week of an appointment will be charged at 50% of the due rate to cover room hire and administrative costs. Cancellations on the day of therapy will be charged at full cost.