Benefits Articles

Frequently Asked Questions

• What to Expect in Therapy

  Is what I say in therapy confidential?

  Yes, with some important exceptions.

  Confidentiality means:

  • What you discuss in therapy remains private between us
  • I will not share information with family members, friends, employers, or others without your explicit consent
  • Session notes and records are stored securely and confidentially

  The exceptions include:

  Risk of Serious Harm

  If I believe that you or someone else is at serious risk of harm, I have a professional and ethical duty to take appropriate action to help prevent that harm.

  Child Protection

  If there are concerns about the safety or welfare of a child, I am legally and ethically required to report these concerns to the appropriate authorities.

  Legal Requirements

  In rare circumstances, a court may require the disclosure of information.

  Clinical Supervision

  I discuss my clinical work within confidential professional supervision to ensure safe and effective practice. Your identity is not disclosed.

  I will explain confidentiality and its limits in more detail during our first session.

• How do I prepare for my first session?

  There is no special preparation needed. Just come as you are.

  Some people find it helpful to think about:

  • What has prompted you to seek therapy now
  • What you are hoping will change or improve
  • Any questions you would like to ask

  If you arrive without having thought about any of this, that is absolutely fine. I will guide the conversation and help you explore what feels important.

• What happens in the first session?

  Your first session is about getting to know each other and understanding what you are hoping to achieve through therapy.

  As your therapist, I will:

  • Ask about what has brought you to therapy
  • Explore your background and current situation
  • Discuss what you are hoping to gain from therapy
  • Explain my approach and how I work
  • Answer any questions you may have
  • Discuss practical matters such as the frequency and duration of sessions

  We will also discuss:

  • Confidentiality and its limits
  • What happens in emergencies
  • How we will work together

  There is no pressure to share more than you feel comfortable sharing. This session is as much about you getting a sense of whether I am the right therapist for you as it is about me getting to know you.

• Can I bring someone with me to my first appointment?

  For individual therapy, sessions are typically one-to-one. However, if you are feeling particularly anxious or have specific needs, please discuss this with me when booking.

  For couples therapy, both partners should attend together.

• How do I book ongoing appointments?

  Once therapy has begun, we will usually schedule your next appointment at the end of each session. You can also contact me by email at therapy@lindsaygeorge.co.uk or by text on 07929 523038 to arrange or adjust appointments.

• What if I miss a session without notice?

  Missed sessions without notice are charged in full.

  I understand that unexpected situations arise, but please communicate with me if you are unable to attend. If there are ongoing difficulties with attendance, we can explore together what may be contributing to this. Sometimes attendance issues can form an important part of the therapeutic work itself.

• How often should I come to therapy?

  The frequency of sessions will depend on your needs, goals, and what I recommend following our initial discussions.

  Common arrangements include:

  • Weekly: The most common frequency for active therapeutic work
  • Fortnightly: Suitable for ongoing support, maintenance, or specific circumstances
  • More frequent sessions: Occasionally recommended during periods of crisis or intensive therapeutic work
  • Less frequent sessions: Often appropriate as therapy progresses and support needs change

  We will discuss what feels most appropriate for your situation and can adjust this as your needs evolve.

• What professional standards do you follow?

  I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).

  As part of my professional commitment, I:

  • Adhere to the BACP Ethical Framework
  • Attend regular clinical supervision
  • Engage in ongoing professional development and training
  • Maintain appropriate professional insurance
  • Work in accordance with relevant legal and professional requirements
• Do you work with insurance companies?

  Yes, I am recognised by WPA.

  Please note:

  • Check your insurance coverage before starting therapy
  • You are responsible for understanding your policy limits and obtaining any necessary authorisations
  • I can submit claims and reports where required, but coverage decisions remain between you and your insurer
  • If your insurance coverage ends or a claim is declined, you become responsible for payment of session fees

  I am happy to support you with insurance-related administration where possible, but the financial responsibility remains with you as the client.