Question 1

What can I expect when starting therapy?

Accepted Answer

Starting therapy can feel daunting, and finding the right therapist is an important step. To help with this, I offer a free 15–minute call to discuss what you’re looking for and whether we might be a good fit.
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The first session will be a bit different from those that follow. It will focus on understanding what has brought you to therapy, and I will ask you about your background so I can gain a fuller picture of how best to support you.

Question 2

How will therapy or counselling help?

Accepted Answer

Therapy or counselling can help you feel more confident in yourself and your choices, and better equipped to face life’s challenges. It can lead to healthier relationships, improved decision-making, and a more fulfilling life.

Question 3

What happens in a session?

Accepted Answer

Sessions typically involve exploring your current concerns and reflecting on your experiences and inner world in a supportive, non-judgemental, and personalised setting. My role is not to fix or advise but to support you in making sense of your thoughts and feelings, gain clarity, and navigate the challenges in your life.

Question 4

How many sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

I typically start with 8 sessions to provide a solid foundation for our work together. This allows us time to build trust, explore your concerns, and see how therapy is helping. After the initial sessions, we’ll review your progress and decide together whether to continue or bring the work to a close, depending on your needs and goals.

Question 5

Is everything I say confidential?

Accepted Answer

All sessions are private and confidential. Creating a safe and trusting space for you to explore your concerns is my highest priority. The only times I may need to break confidentiality are, if I believe there is a serious risk of harm to you or someone else, or if required by law.

Question 6

What is the difference between Counselling and Psychotherapy?

Accepted Answer

Counselling is often short-term, focused on specific issues or outcomes with the number of sessions agreed upon at the start. It can provide meaningful support and help you make positive changes.

Psychotherapy tends to be open-ended and explores deeper issues. It allows for a slower, more in-depth process,  often leading to lasting change and greater self-awareness.

Question 7

What is integrative psychotherapy?

Accepted Answer

Integrative psychotherapy combines different therapeutic methods, allowing me to tailor the approach to suit your unique needs. Together, we can explore the challenges you face and find the most effective way to support you. My approach includes:
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Psychodynamic: Understanding how your past influences your present. This can provide insight into the patterns and unresolved issues that may affect your mood, behaviour, and relationships.
Humanistic: Encouraging personal growth and self-awareness, recognising your unique strengths, and fostering a greater sense of self-acceptance and authenticity.
Trauma-Informed: Acknowledging and addressing the impact of past trauma.
Internal Family Systems (IFS): Working with different parts of yourself to support healing and integration.
Existential: Reflecting on life’s deeper questions, including your purpose, meaning, and relationship with life and mortality.
Transpersonal: Exploring the integration of mind, body, and spirit to promote balance, self-awareness, and personal growth.

Question 8

Do you accept clients through private medical insurance?

Accepted Answer

Not at this time.

Fi Warren-Smith

07889 646 418

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