in Richmond-upon-Thames
Psychology in Richmond-Upon-Thames
For many, making the decision to seek support from a psychologist can be the most challenging part. Here are some of the common initial thoughts clients have shared with me:-
Do I really need therapy? Shouldn't I be able to cope without support? Will therapy really make a difference? How do I know it is confidential?
In order to assess your needs and explore any concerns, I actively encourage potential clients to meet for an initial session before making any decisions. Research has indicated that the biggest predictor of therapeutic change, irrespective of the therapeutic approach, is the quality of the therapeutic alliance. Therefore, it is important to find a practitioner with whom you feel comfortable working with before commencing sessions.
Support from a Chartered Psychologist can provide a confidential setting in which to explore and assess issues which may be impacting upon your physical and emotional well-being. This can provide relief from the sense of personal isolation which can often accompany emotional difficulties. With this comes the opportunity for exploration, understanding, new insight and most importantly newfound hope around the potential for change.
My Approach
As a Chartered Psychologist, I have considerable experience providing therapy to individuals and their families in a range of settings including the NHS, voluntary sector services, schools, universities and private practice. Additionally, I have managed counselling services in schools and charities. I work with adults and young people offering either brief or long-term therapy. At the centre of my work is a strong emphasis placed upon the importance of warm and collaborative therapeutic relationship.
I aim to tailor my approach to meet the needs of the individual and their life circumstances.
I Can Help
I work with a wide range of presenting issues and specialise in working with clients using a form of therapy called eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR).
“It’ is no exaggeration to say that EMDR with Alison has been ‘life-changing’. After years of conventional talking therapy for complex PTSD during which I struggled to feel and process my emotions, I felt that I wasn’t really healing, so started EMDR with Alison. Now, not only am I able to feel and name my emotions but also process them safely, with Alison’s guidance. Her calm, caring manner helps me unlock feelings and memories and make sense of them in a safe, validating and compassionate environment.”
Anna
“Therapy has helped me to gain perspective and face different challenges with confidence, both day-by-day and building tools to manage long term. I feel like I have built a very trusting relationship with Alison over time so I know I have a very safe place to turn to in moments of need. I know I've grown a lot as a person thanks to therapy and I definitely feel able to apply everything we've worked through to many different aspects of my life”
Amelia-professional dancer
My location
I work online with clients worldwide and also from consulting rooms near Richmond-Upon-Thames. I offer online sessions and some face to face sessions in St Margarets TW1 subject to availability. This is within easy reach of Teddington, Wimbledon, Richmond and East Sheen by car or public transport. On street parking is available.
Fees & availability
A typical session is 1 hour for adults and 45-50 minutes for young people. An initial assessment session or some phases of EMDR may require a longer session time.
My session rate is £120. I do try to offer a few low cost slots and reduced cost sessions to performing artists.
FAQs
What will happen if I contact you regarding therapy?
You are welcome to contact me by telephone or email. I aim to respond to messages within 48 hours. It is often useful to have a short discussion about your current situation. This provides an opportunity to ask questions and assess whether you or a family member would like to meet for an initial session.
What can I expect from my first session?
The initial session allows us to explore the issues which you would like to address. It is as much a chance for you to get to know me and ask questions as it is for me to assess the nature of issues presented. There is no obligation to commit to therapy after the initial session and you are encouraged to take time to think about whether therapy is right for you at this time.
How many sessions am I likely to need?
It is often difficult to assess how many sessions will be needed as this will very much depend upon the circumstances and nature of your difficulties. An initial session will help me to tailor the therapy to your needs and consider whether brief or longer term therapy is likely to be most effective.
