What happens in the first session?

The first 50-minute session is for assessment and contracting. We discuss your issues, goals, and confirm the confidentiality agreement to ensure a good therapeutic fit.

Is everything I say confidential?

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.

Do you accept private medical insurance?

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.

How much does therapy cost?

My fee for an individual 50-minute session is £85. For couples, the fee is £120 per session. Please contact me directly to discuss if any concessions (reduced fees) may be available.

What type of therapy do you offer?

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.

Do you offer online therapy or just face-to-face?

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.

Where are you located and what areas do you cover?

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

How long will I need therapy for?

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.

What's the difference between a Psychotherapist and a Clinical Psychologist?

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.

How will I know if therapy is working?

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.

What is your cancellation policy?

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.

How to Tell if Someone You Love Has a Drug Problem

Derrick Tempest
13 minutes ago
2 min read

As a psychotherapist specialising in addiction here in St Albans in Hertfordshire, I know how painful and confusing it is to watch a loved one struggle. Addiction often begins as subtle changes, not the extremes you see in the media.

Recognising these signs early is the first, most crucial step towards helping them find recovery.

Here are the four main areas where you will likely notice changes when a drug problem is developing:

Physical & Health-Related Changes

These are often the most visible signs, sometimes disguised as fatigue or stress.

Sudden Weight Change: Unexplained weight loss or gain. Appearance Neglect: A noticeable decline in personal hygiene and grooming. Changes in Eyes: Bloodshot or glassy eyes, abnormally sized pupils, or wearing sunglasses indoors frequently. Unexplained Physical Symptoms: Shakes, tremors, slurred speech, poor coordination, or frequent nosebleeds. Sleep Disturbances: Sleeping at odd hours; staying up for days or regularly missing obligations due to sleep.

Behavioural & Psychological Changes

These shifts reflect changes in mood, motivation, and trust.

Increased Secrecy: Being evasive about whereabouts or companions. Spending excessive time alone, locking doors, or becoming hostile when questioned. Sudden Mood Swings: Rapid shifts from calm to irritable, aggressive, or depressed without clear cause. Loss of Interest: Abandoning hobbies, sports, friends, or activities they once enjoyed. Defensiveness: Becoming immediately angry or overly defensive when drugs or their behaviour are mentioned. Paranoia or Anxiety: Experiencing unexplained fear, suspiciousness, or anxiety.

Social, Work, & Financial Changes

Addiction begins to take priority over responsibilities and relationships.

Job or School Trouble: Missing work or school, poor performance, or getting fired. Financial Problems: Unexplained need for money, borrowing/stealing money, or items going missing from the home. Relationship Conflict: Increased arguments, withdrawal from family and friends, or starting relationships with new, negative peer groups. Lying: Frequent, elaborate, and often unconvincing lies to cover activities.

Drug-Related Paraphernalia

Finding these items is often the clearest evidence of use.

Pipes, Rolling Papers, or Vaping Devices: Finding unfamiliar pipes, foil, or an excessive number of rolling papers or unusual vapes. Containers and Residue: Finding tiny zip-top bags, empty pill bottles, or containers with residue. Injection Tools: Finding syringes or burnt spoons. Missing Medication: Finding prescription bottles empty sooner than expected, or finding pills not prescribed to them.

What to Do Next: Seek Guidance

If you recognise these patterns, please know that you are not alone. Do not wait for 'rock bottom'. See your intervention as a safety net.

Educate Yourself: Learn about the specific substances you suspect. Communicate with Empathy: Focus on their behaviour and your feelings ('I am worried because you missed work'), rather than accusations. Seek Professional Help: Consult with an addiction professional (like myself) or your GP. We can guide you on setting boundaries and exploring treatment options.

Reaching out for help is a sign of strength. If you want to discuss your situation privately, please feel free to reach out. I offer a free 20-minute phone call, or you can book a full 50-minute paid session. Should you want the potentially addicted loved one to access therapy then it's only possible if they contact me themselves.

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