FAQ`s – Coaching and Psychotherapy
What is the difference between a psychotherapist and coach?
Psychotherapist
A psychotherapist is someone who practices psychotherapy as the treatment of mind disorder by psychological rather than medical means. This is a broad description of many different forms of talking therapies and approaches. Many professionals use the titles psychotherapist and coach interchangeably and have a blended approach between the two that can be very effective. A psychotherapist is a qualified individual who works with talking therapies to help people overcome emotional, social and mental health problems.
Coach
A coach motivates you to achieve personal objectives in careers, relationships, goals and priorities. They work in the “here and now” and look to the future to help clients set goals and overcome their difficulties. The nature of the coaching will depend on the requirements of the client.
How do I know if I need coaching or psychotherapy?
There is no fixed criteria, so only you can decide to see a coach or psychotherapist. I am qualified in both disciplines and will help you dependent on your requirements. Coaching and psychotherapy provides time to work with a professional and talk about your problems. I can help you develop to see and feel things differently; so enhance your life.
How many people in the UK have coaching or psychotherapy?
There are no definitive figures for how many people see private coaches or psychotherapists. A recent house of commons briefing confirmed there has been an increase in people reporting a common mental disorder since 1993, this increase was 18.6% in 2014. It also reported that 1.4 million people were referred to taking therapy in 2015/16.
How can I be assured of a practitioners’ professionalism?
If you are wary about visiting a coach or psychotherapist I would suggest that you ask to see their qualifications and a copy of their professional insurance.
What experience should coaches and psychotherapists have?
There is no hard and fast rule here. Everyone has to start somewhere. There are some coaches and psychotherapists who have recently qualified and are as good as people with several years experience. However having both qualifications and years of life experience goes a long way in my view.
How long does each session last?
Each session is between 50-60 minutes.
How often will I see my coach or psychotherapist?
Most coaches and psychotherapists use weekly sessions. But this can vary depending on the type of therapy, you and the therapist. I will make this clear from the outset.
Do I have to pay for coaching or psychotherapy sessions?
I work in private practice and always charge for sessions. I will let you know what my fees per session are when you make contact. I may also be able to give reductions for people who are unemployed or on a low income.
Can I have coaching or psychotherapy on Skype or by telephone?
I always prefer to see clients in person however I do appreciate that people have busy lives and can offer skype and telephone appointments if you cannot see me face to face.
Do you offer group sessions or workshops?
Yes I do, please enquire about this.
How can I find out more about coaching and psychotherapy?
I do realise that some people may wish to find out more about a particular approach. Please feel free to have a browse around the website to see more detailed information about my services. In addition you can research this online.
I’m worried about someone else – will a coach or psychotherapist give me information to help a friend myself?
It is highly unlikely and would be very unprofessional. I would not condone this type of help as I cannot give out advice without full information about the friend and without their consent. I would suggest they contact us directly.
What happens if I miss a booked session?
During our first session I will explain such things as part of the terms and conditions on missed appointments. The same will apply to late attendance at sessions.
What happens if I don’t like my coach or therapist?
The relationship between me and you (the client) is very important. This is sometimes called the ‘therapeutic relationship’. Do not “just disappear” tell me that you are not happy and I may be able to refer you to another person that you will feel more comfortable with. I have never had this problem however.
Can you guarantee to cure me? Will coaching or psychotherapy work for me? Can I get a refund if I don’t get better?
Like other professionals, I cannot guarantee coaching or psychotherapy will cure you or work for you. These therapies have helped millions of people overcome their difficulties. Therapists supply the safe environment and tools for you to make the changes you desire. If they have provided these correctly and you do not make the changes in your mind, sorry but that is not the fault of the coach or therapist.
You are employing my services (time and therapeutic knowledge) and you will have had this so no refund would apply I am afraid.
Can I bring a family member or friend with me to the sessions?
You may be able to the first time you meet me. They may be allowed in or asked to sit outside. You need to check this before you arrive. It is usually far better to have nobody you know in the room as they often prevent you talking honestly, especially if they are your partner..