Frequently Asked Questions…

What does a Clinical Psychologist do?


A Clinical Psychologist helps you understand how your mind works and gives you practical tools to handle life’s challenges more effectively. We are highly trained mental health professionals who are experts on how the mind works and what may be getting in the way of you being the person you want to be and doing the things you want to do. We are trained to a high level in many different therapy styles, which means we can blend different approaches so therapy is tailored to you and your needs. Think of it like us having a ‘toolbox’, not just one tool like some other therapists, so we can adapt and combine therapy methods in a highly skilled, individualised way.

Sessions with me offer a space where you can talk openly, feel understood, and begin to make sense of what’s going on. I’ll work with you so we can put the puzzle pieces together and help you find a way through your difficulties.

What can I expect to happen in the first session?

It’s totally normal to have worries before your first session, but in reality it’s usually much more relaxed and comfortable than people expect. Psychologists, like me, are highly trained to help put people at ease and guide the conversation.

Most of the first session is just talking. You don’t need to have clear goals or the “right words.” You can literally say - “I don’t really know where to start” and leave it to me to ask some questions to explore stuff a bit.

It can feel a bit like telling your story to someone who’s skilled at listening and understanding you.

While you’re talking and telling me your story, I’m quietly…

  • understanding how you think and feel

  • noticing patterns

  • figuring out how best to help you

I’m not judging you. I’m not analysing you in a scary way.

It’s more like me looking for patterns in your thoughts and behaviours, and considering simple, practical strategies to help you feel more in control, more confident, and better equipped to handle everyday challenges.

Listening

✳︎

Understanding

✳︎

Changing Lives

✳︎

Listening ✳︎ Understanding ✳︎ Changing Lives ✳︎

Do I have to tell you everything?

You don’t have to tell me everything, you’re in control of what you share and when.

If something feels too personal, it’s ok to say “I’m not ready to go into that yet.” I will completely respect that.

What if my problems aren’t ‘severe enough’?

If it matters to you, it’s valid and it matters to me.

You don’t need a crisis or major trauma to see a psychologist. You can come and see me if any everyday changes are leading to stress and worry.

What if I get emotional or cry?

That’s very common and totally understandable. I’m very used to it and will help it feel ok for you.

People cry in sessions all the time. It’s actually a sign you’re letting things out and we’re getting somewhere.

What is CFT (Compassion Focused Therapy)?

Compassion Focused Therapy is a type of therapy founded by Dr Paul Gilbert that helps you change how you treat yourself on the inside, especially if your default is to be self-critical, anxious or ashamed.

The core idea is that your brain is not designed to make you happy, it’s designed to keep you safe.

Because of that your brain often:

  • Spots problems quickly and easily when there is change in life

  • Remembers your mistakes and reminds you of them when you’re trying to move forward

  • Talks to you in a harsh, critical way, which can get in the way of you adapting to change.

CFT isn’t about being soft or letting yourself off the hook.

It’s about creating an inner voice that helps you cope and improve, rather than one that beats you up and blocks your progress.

CFT says the harsh inner voice isn’t your fault, but you can learn to respond to it differently.

What is ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy)?

ACT is a type of therapy that helps you handle difficult thoughts and feelings without getting stuck with them, so you can move forward with your life.

ACT teaches you that you don’t have to get rid of uncomfortable thoughts or feelings to live a fulfilled life when change happens.

Instead of getting stuck all the time you:

  • Accept the difficult stuff that comes with big changes in your life

  • Commit to actions that help you do more of what matters to you

Change often brings uncertainty, anxiety and a loss of control. ACT helps you in 3 key ways:

  1. You stop fighting reality, which frees up energy for doing more of what matters to you.

  2. You create some distance from your thoughts and feelings, which helps you think more clearly and move forward.

  3. You focus on what really matters and take small actions in that direction, even when you feel anxious.