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FAQs - The therapeutic process

Consultation: What to Expect

The initial consultation lasts an hour and will help us to explore what has brought you to therapy and how counselling can help you. It is an opportunity to explore any fears and concerns you might have about the process of counselling. The consultation can also be a chance for you to ask any questions you may have and to reflect how you might feel about working together.

Frequency and length of sessions

Sessions last 50 minutes and take place at regular times once a week. The length of the therapeutic contract varies and can be established at the initial onsultation. I offer short term: 6 sessions, mid term: 7-24 sessions or open ended.

How many session will I need?

There is not a one-size fits-all in therapy. The numbers of sessions will depend on your situation, the difficulties that you bring and your personal preferences. Therapy does not always offer an immediate solution to long standing and possibly painful problems. But we will review at intervals your progress to see where you are at with it. There is no limit as to how many sessions you can have as long as you still find them useful.

How does  online therapy work? Is it effetive?

From any device like a laptop, mobile phone, tablet or desktop computer we can meet online via Zoom or Microsoft Teams. It is important to make sure that you have access to a quiet space and you won't be interrupted. More than 30 years of research shows that online therapy is as effective as face to face therapy. Many of my clients prefer online therapy as it is convenient to them doing a therapy session from any location and still get the benefits of a regular in-person therapy session. More than 30 years of research shows that online therapy is as effective as face to face therapy. Whether In person, Online or a mix of both is entirely down to personal preferences.

Is therapy confidential?

Confidentiality is a core element within therapy and key to a successful therapeutic relationship. Confidentiality is important in order to provide you with a space where you feel free and safe to talk. I will not give information to your doctor or anyone else without your permission. The only time confidentiality will be broken is if there is a risk of harm to yourself or others, and in very rare cases where required by law.

Counselling Agreement: What is it?

A counselling agreement or contract, is a shared understanding between therapist and client outlining the terms within which the counselling work can develop in safety.It will include aspects such as clear boundaries, confidentiality, ethics, online policy, payment options, holidays and cancellation policies. It will help us both, myself as your therapist and you as the client to ensure that we’re working in a safe, respectful and professional manner.

Can you tell me how to solve my problems? 

I will not provide you with solutions, however I will help you explore your responses to them to find other ways of dealing with a situation, but the choice of whether or not you do anything about it is yours.

Affiliation

I am a registered and accredited member of the British Association of Counsellors & Psychotherapists and I abide by their code of ethics.

Ana Vidal, MSc

Counsellor & Psychotherapist

In person and Online

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0793 0624 824

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London Practice

Cannon Workshops

Cannon Drive

Canary Wharf, 

London E14 4AS

Wiltshire Practice

Warminster

Wiltshire

BA12

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Socials

LinkedIn​

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