Frequently Asked Questions
What is Humanistic Therapy?
Humanistic therapy is a compassionate and collaborative approach that focuses on you as a whole person, rather than on a diagnosis or set of symptoms. It is based on the belief that everyone has the capacity for growth, healing and positive change when offered the right support.
My approach is grounded in humanistic therapy and informed by person-centred, existential and emotionally focused approaches, allowing me to tailor therapy to your individual needs.
Rather than giving advice or telling you what to do, I will work alongside you, supporting you to explore your experiences and discover your own insights, strengths and solutions. Humanistic therapy can be particularly helpful if you are experiencing anxiety, low mood, relationship difficulties, loss, life transitions, low self-esteem, or simply feeling disconnected from yourself and others.
How do I get started and how
many sessions will I need?
Getting started is simple. You can reach out by phone, email or through the contact form at the top of this page.
We'll then arrange a free 30-minute phone call so we can discuss what brings you to therapy, what you hope to achieve, and any questions or concerns you may have.
During the call, I'll explain the next steps and help you decide whether working together feels right for you. There is no obligation to commit to therapy, and you won't be asked to discuss anything you don't feel comfortable sharing.
In my experience, regular weekly sessions are most beneficial. Some people like the open-ended approach, and we work together to determine when an ending feels most appropriate. For others, a block of sessions works well, or blocks of sessions based around school term times. We can explore this together to find the right fit for you, your life, and your other commitments.
Where is your practice and can I mix
indoor and walk-and-talk therapy?
Grounded Therapy is based near Sutton Bank, midway between Thirsk and Helmsley and is surrounded by beautiful countryside. A walk from the front door of the practice room is always an option on an ad hoc basis (we will discuss safety and safeguarding issues surrounding this in our first session if it’s something you are interested in)
If you know you would like to have therapy outdoors, but in other locations, this can easily be arranged; however, all routes must be risk assessed. It is perfectly possible to combine the different ways of working.
I feel like my issues are just too
much/not big enough. Can you
help me?
It is common to wonder whether your problems are "serious enough" for therapy, or to worry that what you are carrying feels too overwhelming. In my experience, there is no issue that is too big or too small to bring to therapy.
Whatever is troubling you, confusing you, or taking up space in your life is welcome. You do not need to have the right words or a clear understanding of what is wrong. We can begin wherever you are and work at a pace that feels right for you.
What if I'm ill or need to cancel?
My cancellation terms are:
More than 48 hours notice - the session will be rearranged at no charge.
24-48 hours notice - a 50% fee will apply.
Less than 24 hours notice - the full charge will apply.
It feels expensive, is it worth it?
Therapy is an investment of both time and money, so it is natural to wonder whether it will be worth it.
While I can't guarantee specific outcomes, many people find that having a dedicated space to explore their thoughts, feelings and experiences can lead to greater self-understanding, improved relationships, increased self-confidence and a greater sense of wellbeing.
Therapy is not about fixing you. It is about giving yourself time, attention and support to better understand what is happening in your life and how you want to move forward.
Only you can decide whether therapy feels like the right investment for you, but if something has been weighing on you for a while, seeking support can be a valuable first step.