Questions You Might Have Before Starting

Starting Therapy

Yes completely. Beginning therapy can feel like a big step, especially if relationships haven’t always felt safe or supportive. You’re considering inviting someone into your inner world, and that takes courage. Feeling unsure, anxious, or hesitant is a very natural response. We’ll explore these feelings together, and you’ll never be rushed. We’ll go at a pace that feels manageable for you while gently staying open to challenge, as this is often where growth begins.
You don’t need to be in crisis, or have everything figured out, to benefit from therapy. If something inside you is stirring, whether it’s discomfort, disconnection, or just a sense that things could be different, therapy may be a helpful space. You don’t need a diagnosis to want change, support, or deeper connection.
The first 1-6 sessions are part of a collaborative assessment phase. This is our chance to get to know each other and see what’s emerging for you. I’ll ask questions to begin building a shared understanding of your experiences, and you’re invited to bring whatever feels relevant or important at your own pace. These early sessions also help us shape how we might work together to build trust, identify your hopes, and co-create a therapeutic process that feels grounded, attuned, and supportive.
I don’t offer a free consultation call. Once I receive your email inquiry, we can discuss what you're looking for, as I find the early assessment sessions offer a much more meaningful and relational way to explore whether we’re a good fit. These sessions give us time to consider whether we can work collaboratively and in your best interest without the pressure of having to decide too quickly.
The therapeutic relationship is at the heart of healing. You deserve to feel safe, heard, and respected. Our early sessions are a space to notice how it feels to be in relationship with me, whether you feel able to show up as yourself, and whether we can explore things together with honesty and care. And if it doesn’t feel like the right fit, we can name that together. You always have choice and agency here. What would you say to someone who is hesitant about starting therapy? It’s absolutely okay to feel uncertain. We don’t have to rush into anything. Our work will be collaborative—something we shape together. Therapy is about safety and growth. At times, this might involve facing discomfort, but always in a way that is held, supported, and attuned to your readiness. We'll honour your boundaries while staying open to what’s possible. You won’t be alone in it.

During Therapy

I see therapy as a collaborative, relational process. You are the expert on your own life. My role is to walk alongside you, helping to gently uncover what may have become buried or tangled over time, and support you to reconnect with your inner knowing and strengths. We’ll explore how your past has shaped you, how it may be showing up now, including in our relationship and work together to create space for growth, healing, and joy. I bring knowledge of trauma, neurobiology, and relational dynamics but we build the work around you.
Not exactly. I’ll offer reflections, insights, or information when it feels helpful but never in a directive or prescriptive way. I deeply respect your autonomy and capacity to find what feels right for you. Together, we’ll create space to reconnect with your own voice and values.
That’s something we’ll discover together. For some, a shorter piece of work is enough. For others especially when working with trauma, therapy may be longer-term, unfolding in layers. We’ll regularly check in on how things are going and ensure the direction we’re taking continues to feel aligned with your needs.
Therapy is rarely linear. Sometimes, progress looks like clarity or ease; other times, it’s found in tolerating discomfort, noticing patterns, or showing up more fully in relationships. We’ll talk openly about how therapy feels, what’s shifting (or not), and what you might need more of. You’re encouraged to bring any feedback into the room — this is your space, and our relationship is one of collaboration and mutual reflection.

Specific Concerns

That’s okay. You don’t need a particular label or definition to come to therapy. What matters is how things have impacted you. If something is causing distress, holding you back, or making life harder - then it’s important. We’ll use language that feels right for you, and focus on what you’re experiencing, not just what it's called.
You don’t need a diagnosis or even certainty to explore your relationship with food, body, or control. Many people feel stuck in patterns that don’t feel good, even if they don’t meet formal criteria for an eating disorder. If something about food, eating, or how you feel in your body is taking up a lot of space or causing distress, then it’s valid and worth exploring. When I work with anyone, I view symptoms and behaviours whether around food, emotions, or relationships as survival adaptations that have helped you get through. In the context of disordered eating or eating disorders, I see these behaviours as solutions to underlying pain or unmet needs, not as “problems” to be fixed. Together, we’ll approach this with curiosity, compassion, and care - always working with what feels right and safe for you.
Not at all. Memory gaps are common, especially when the nervous system has had to protect you from overwhelm. Therapy doesn’t depend on remembering everything. We work with what’s present now — your feelings, body sensations, patterns, and responses. We’ll be curious together, but never force anything. You guide what we explore.
It’s a valid concern. Our work will be grounded in safety, regulation, and connection. We won't dive in too fast we’ll go gently and steadily. At times therapy can be challenging, but we’ll always prioritise your sense of safety. If something feels too much, we can slow down and return to solid ground together. You’re not alone in that.

Practical Matters

I offer therapy via Zoom, which allows us to work together from the comfort of your own space. You’ll need a device with a camera and mic, a reliable internet connection, and somewhere private to talk. I’ll send you a secure link before your first session. Online therapy can offer flexibility, consistency, and safety especially when it’s important to feel anchored in your own environment.
Currently, I work exclusively online. This allows greater flexibility and accessibility for many clients, and enables us to work together regardless of location.
I am registered with WPA Insurance and can provide invoices for reimbursement if your plan allows. I don’t currently work directly with other insurance providers, but I’m happy to issue receipts if you're able to claim independently.
I ask for 48 hours’ notice for any cancellations or reschedules. Sessions cancelled with less notice are charged in full. If I don’t hear from you within 5 days of a missed session, I may cancel future bookings but I’ll always try to get in touch first. If something’s getting in the way of attending regularly, we can talk about it together and adjust where needed.
What you share in therapy is private and confidential, with a few legal exceptions such as risk of serious harm or a court order. I also engage in regular clinical supervision (as all ethical therapists do) to ensure I’m providing the best support I can, while fully protecting your identity. You’re always welcome to ask more about this. We’ll be transparent and collaborative in all aspects of the work.