Question 1

What is the difference between a psychotherapist, counsellor, social worker, psychologist, and psychiatrist?

Accepted Answer

These titles reflect different professional backgrounds, training pathways, and scopes of practice. While there can be overlap, the key differences relate to training, regulation, and focus.
Psychotherapists provide in-depth psychological therapy aimed at long-term and lasting change. Psychotherapy explores underlying emotional patterns, relational dynamics, and life experiences rather than focusing only on symptom relief. Rigorously trained psychotherapists usually complete four to eight years of postgraduate training and are required to undertake extensive personal therapy and supervision.
Counsellors generally focus on specific issues or life challenges and may work short to medium term. Training varies widely, from short courses to multi-year qualifications. Some counsellors work at a supportive level, while others work therapeutically or psychotherapeutically at greater depth.
Social workers take a holistic, systems-based approach to wellbeing, recognising the impact of trauma, relationships, culture, environment, and social context. Social workers may provide counselling or psychotherapy when they have appropriate post-qualification training. I am a Mental Health Accredited Social Worker, which reflects advanced training and experience in mental health practice.
Psychologists are trained in the scientific study of human behaviour and mental processes and often focus on assessment, diagnosis, and evidence-based psychological interventions. Not all psychologists are trained in depth psychotherapy unless they have specialist postgraduate training.
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialise in mental illness and can prescribe medication. Most contemporary psychiatric practice is medication-focused, with psychotherapy often provided alongside by other professionals.

Question 2

What services are offered?

Accepted Answer

Four distinct services are offered:
 • Therapy for individuals seeking psychological and emotional support including EMDR Therapy referrals
 • Professional supervision for practitioners working in mental health, social work, and related fields
 • Consultation for individuals, teams, or organisations seeking specialist input or reflective support
 • Training & Professional Education in child protection, trauma, mental health for professionals in allied health and social services sector 
Each service has a different purpose, structure, and ethical framework.

Question 3

How do I know which service is right for me?

Accepted Answer

If you are seeking support for your own mental health or wellbeing, therapy is most appropriate.
If you are a practitioner seeking reflective support related to your professional role, supervision is appropriate.
If you are seeking expert input, advice, or time-limited guidance, consultation may be the best fit.
This can also be clarified during an initial discussion.

Question 4

Can I access more than one service at the same time?

Accepted Answer

For ethical reasons, therapy and supervision are generally not provided concurrently to the same person. Consultation arrangements are considered on a case-by-case basis.

Question 5

What are your fees?

Accepted Answer

Fees vary depending on whether the service is therapy, supervision, or consultation. Current fees for therapy and supervision are outlined in the Fees section of this website. Consultation fees are discussed and agreed as part of the initial contracting process.

Question 6

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Details regarding cancellations, notice periods, and applicable fees are provided in the Fees and CancellationPolicy section of this website. Please review this information prior to booking.

Question 7

How long are sessions?

Accepted Answer

Session length varies depending on whether the service is therapy, supervision, or consultation. Details are provided prior to booking.

Question 8

Are sessions offered in person or online?

Accepted Answer

Sessions may be offered in person or via secure telehealth, depending on availability and preference.

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