Question 1

What should I expect in the first session?

Accepted Answer

The first time we meet is different from a regular therapy session — it's a space for us to get to know one another and see if we're the right fit. Here is how that 50-minute meeting usually unfolds.
1. Settling In Whether we meet in person at my St Albans office or online via Zoom/Google Meet, we start by simply arriving. It is completely normal to feel nervous or unsure of where to begin. My role is to provide a gentle, non-judgmental space where you don't have to "perform" or have all the answers ready.

2. The Working Agreement We spend around 10 minutes on the practicalities — reviewing confidentiality (what stays between us and the rare legal exceptions), how we will work together, session timings, and my 48-hour cancellation policy.

3. Sharing Your Story This is the core of the session. I'll invite you to talk about what has brought you to therapy now — whether that's recent triggers like a relationship breakdown or career stress, or longer-standing patterns. You are in the driver's seat: you only share what you feel comfortable sharing.

4. Exploring Your Goals We'll discuss what you hope to gain. Practical tools to manage anxiety? Untangling deeper roots from the past? Identifying this helps us measure your progress as we go.

5. Deciding the Next Step At the end, we check in. If it feels right, we can book a regular weekly slot. If I feel a different specialist might serve you better, I'll be honest and offer a referral. There is no obligation to commit until you are ready.

Question 2

What is your confidentiality policy?

Accepted Answer

Everything is private, per BACP and UKCP ethical codes. Exceptions are legally mandated for safeguarding (abuse of a child/vulnerable adult) or imminent risk of serious harm to yourself or others.

Question 3

Do you accept private medical insurance?

Accepted Answer

I may be able to accept some private medical insurers. Please contact me to check if I am registered with your specific provider, as I do not currently accept BUPA.

Question 4

What are your fees?

Accepted Answer

Individual Therapy: £85 per 50-minute session. Couples Therapy: £120 per 60-minute session. Initial Consultation: I offer a free 15-minute phone or video call to ensure we are a good fit before you commit to a full session.

Sliding scale: I hold a limited number of reduced-rate slots at £65 for students, trainee counsellors, or those experiencing significant financial hardship. These are in high demand — please mention your interest when you first get in touch.

Payment: Sessions are paid by bank transfer (BACS) or cash.

Insurance: Please check with your provider whether they cover psychotherapy or counselling, obtain an authorisation code, and I will confirm whether I can bill them directly.

Business expense: If you are a Limited Company director on the payroll, HMRC often views therapy for stress or work-related mental health as a tax-deductible welfare expense. I can provide receipts for your records.

Question 5

What types of therapy do you specialise in?

Accepted Answer

I specialise in Integrative Psychotherapy. This is a flexible, person-centred approach that draws on multiple therapeutic models—such as CBT, Humanistic, Psychodynamic, and Transpersonal—to tailor treatment specifically to your unique needs and goals.

Question 6

Do you offer online or in-person sessions?

Accepted Answer

I offer both online therapy and in-person sessions. Face-to-face appointments are held at my practice in St Albans, Hertfordshire (AL4). Online appointments are available via a secure video link to clients worldwide.

Question 7

What areas do you cover?

Accepted Answer

I work in St Albans and serve the surrounding areas, including Harpenden, Hatfield, Hemel Hempstead, and Watford.

Question 8

How long does therapy typically last?

Accepted Answer

The length varies. We can work short-term (e.g., 6-20 sessions) on specific issues or on an open-ended/long-term basis, depending entirely on your goals. We review progress regularly to ensure therapy is meeting your needs.

Question 9

What is the difference between a Psychotherapist and a Psychologist?

Accepted Answer

Both offer talking therapy. A Psychotherapist (UKCP/BACP) focuses on emotional and psychological healing. A Clinical Psychologist (HCPC) is often focused on diagnosis and research-based treatments.

Question 10

How do I know if therapy is working?

Accepted Answer

We will regularly review progress against the goals we set in the first session. Changes often start with a shift in perspective, improved coping, or reduced distress in daily life.

Question 11

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

I require 48 hours' notice for cancellation or rescheduling. Missed appointments or cancellations with less notice will be charged the full session fee although if rescheduled this may not apply.

Question 12

Do we both need to attend every session?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, yes — couples therapy works best when both partners are present. There may be occasions where individual sessions are useful alongside the joint work, and Derrick will discuss what's right for your situation.

Question 13

How does the initial consultation work?

Accepted Answer

The free initial consultation is available for individual clients. It's a short, informal conversation — a chance for you to ask any questions you might have, and for Derrick to get a sense of what you're looking for. There's no pressure or commitment involved. If you'd like to go ahead after that, you can book your first full session at a time that suits you.
If you're enquiring as a couple, Derrick would love to hear from you — just get in touch directly and he'll be happy to talk things through.

Frequently asked questions