Jenny Bridge    Psychotherapist and Counsellor.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHAT IS PSYCHOTHERAPY.
There are many schools of psychotherapy and counselling. They all offer ways of helping clients to overcome emotional problems, relationship difficulties, or self defeating patterns of thinking and behaviour. All treatments are based on talking to another person and building a relationship of trust. It is within this relationship that the client can address their problems, and understand some of the historic influences and unconscious processes that contribute to these problems.

WHAT HAPPENS IN PSYCHOTHERAPY?
Psychotherapy involves regular meetings once a week. These sessions are confidential. Generally, sessions are conducted face to face and last for 50 minutes. The therapist and client will establish the goals of treatment together, following a period of exploration and getting to know each other.

HOW DO PEOPLE USE PSYCHOTHERAPY?

Psychotherapy has been proved to be an effective aid for the following:

* Feelings of anxiety and difficulties in coping or concentration.
* Feelings of emptiness, sadness or depression.
* Lack of confidence.  Low self-esteem.
* Difficulty in making or sustaining relationships, or repeatedly getting involved in unsatisfactory or destructive relationships.
* Mood swings.
* Problems coming to terms with loss. e.g. Bereavement, Divorce, Redundancy or Retirement.
* Physical symptoms.
* Eating Disorders.
* Obsessional behaviours.
* Phobias or panic attacks.
* Addictions.
* Suicidal thoughts or intention.

Recent Research in the field of Neuroscience has demonstrated that Psychotherapy works in changing established neural pathways and opening new ones. This means that clients are able to reconnect with repressed feelings and needs.


HOW DO I CHOOSE A PSYCHOTHERAPIST?

One of the most important aspects in this choice is that the client feels comfortable with the therapist. This means that you will feel listened to, and believe that the therapist respects your unique personality and life situation. Does the therapist behave in a non-judgemental, non-patronising way, and support you to find your own solutions where possible? Do they appear motivated to understand you, and is this someone you would be willing to talk to? If not, you may want to seek an alternative therapist. Remember, you are free to make your own choice.

OTHER CHECKS:
  * What training have they had? Was it with a reputable Training Institute?
  * Do they receive regular supervision for their work?
  * Have they had their own extensive personal therapy?
  * Do they belong to a professional association, with its own relevant Codes of Ethics and Professional Practice?
  * Are they properly insured?

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

Fees per session for Psychotherapy range between £45.00 and £ 100.00.

My fees range between £50.00 and £60.00.
I am willing to reduce these fees  in situations of financial difficulty.