FAQs

What is the difference between a Psychologist and a Psychiatrist?

A Clinical Psychologist must first gain an undergraduate degree in psychology. Following this they will gain further experience working in relevant healthcare settings. They are then required to complete a 3 year Doctorate clinical training course. During this training they work with patients under supervision from experienced psychologists and study for an academic doctorate. They complete training placements with adults, children, older adults and people with learning difficulties.

They are trained to use a range of models of psychological therapy and to work consultatively within organisations. They also learn research methods and skills in service development.

Psychiatrists are medically trained doctors who have completed further training to specialise in psychiatry. Following their 5 years of medical doctors must do 2 further years of “Foundation” jobs in hospitals before they can start to specialise in psychiatry.

Where will I be seen?

I offer sessions from my quiet and comfortable consulting room at Carlton Psychology in central Farnham. 

If our work indicates that a home visit or school/nursery observation would be clinically helpful this can also be arranged. The cost of such visits will be discussed on a case by case basis.

How long will I have to wait for an appointment?

I aim to offer an initial assessment within 2 weeks of your first contact with me, obviously this is dependent on availability.

How long will therapy take?

There is no one-size-fits all answer to this question. Some simple problems can be addressed in 6 sessions or even less, whereas other difficulties require long term work. For longer term work I operate a 6 session and review model. This allows us to pause and check in on progress every 6 sessions to check how things are going and how much longer we may need to work together. I will always offer a review session 6-8 weeks after our last session.

How much do you charge?

I offer a free initial mini consultation for 15 minutes, this is usually held over the phone. If we decide to work together following this conversation my charges are as follow:

Ongoing Session: 50 mins - £120

Payment is due within 24 hours of your session. Payment can be made by cash in the session or by BACS transfer.

Will my therapy be paid for by my private health insurer?

Health insurance policies vary so you will need to explore this with your provider directly. When policies do cover psychological therapies it is important to check with your insurer how many sessions are covered.

I am a registered provider for the following health insurance providers:

BUPA, AXA PPP, Vitality, Cigna and WPA

What happens if I miss a session?

I operate a 48 hour cancellation policy. Appointments cancelled more than 48 hours before the due appointment will not be charged. Appointments cancelled between 24 and 48 hours before the due appointment will be charged at 50%, appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice will be charged at the full rate.

Do you offer urgent appointments?

I do not offer an emergency service. If you require help urgently please request an emergency appointment with your GP or present to A&E.

Please see here for a copy of my full terms and conditions. (word document)