Question 1

What is the process for starting therapy?

Accepted Answer

We usually start by emailing each other to see if our availabilities match.

We can then have a free short phone call to discuss sessions. In that call, if you want to, we’d book in a first session.

Some people prefer to not have a call, and go straight to booking a session over emails. That is fine too.

I will then email you a working agreement before the start of our first session to read, sign, and bring any questions about that agreement. This agreement contains all the information about payment, location, video links etc.

Question 2

How much is a session?

Accepted Answer

I charge £90 a session.

Question 3

How long is a session?

Accepted Answer

Sessions are 50 minutes.

Question 4

How do I prepare for an IFS therapy session?

Accepted Answer

Show up as you are. No need to prepare.

As we get going with sessions, there may end up being a desire to report back on how a process is going, or some activities you choose to do between sessions. This will all be lead by you.

Question 5

What happens in the first session?

Accepted Answer

First sessions are about us getting to know one another, and helping you to build trust in me, and in the process. 
We can ask each other questions, and you can explain what brings you to therapy. We often talk about any previous therapy you’ve had, and what worked and what didn’t.

At the end of the initial session we’ll discuss how it went, and what you’d like to do moving forward. At this point you may realise I’m not the right therapist, and that’s fine. Equally, there are rare occasions when I think it’s more appropriate that you work with someone else, in which case I’ll do my best to refer you to someone.

Question 6

How regular are the sessions?

Accepted Answer

Sessions are weekly at the same day and time.

Bear in mind that combining both of our holiday time off, alongside trainings and other residential work I do, there is usually roughly 12 weeks without sessions each year.

Question 7

How does an IFS session typically unfold?

Accepted Answer

IFS is about identifying and being with parts of ourselves that are needing more attention. These parts may be  carrying thoughts, feelings, beliefs and values from the past or present, that are contributing to the current symptoms. These might be every day ‘managerial’ parts that help us get through the day, or deeper suffering younger experiences that are harder to access.

My role is to help you build better relationships with those parts of yourself.

Question 8

How long does the therapy process usually take?

Accepted Answer

It is different for everyone. I initially offer a maximum of 12 sessions, and at that point we assess together whether to enter into an open-ended agreement.

You’re also welcome to define a shorter course of sessions. E.G “Can we do 6 sessions Ben?” Sure.

Question 9

What kinds of issues can IFS therapy address?

Accepted Answer

IFS is a broad approach that can be applied to the human experience. IFS doesn’t really use the common medicalised terminology to categorise symptoms. But to give  you an idea, IFS is useful in treating issues such as Anxiety, Depression, C/PTSD, OCD, Addictions, BPD/ED. It is also an empowering and inclusive model for working with a wide range of neuro-divergent experiences.

Question 10

Is IFS therapy backed by research?

Accepted Answer

Yes. IFS has been studied in clinical trials and pilot studies. Research shows it can help reduce symptoms of PTSD, depression, and anxiety, and improve physical health and self-compassion.

For example:
A randomized trial found IFS improved pain and functioning in people with rheumatoid arthritis.
Pilot studies show significant reductions in PTSD and related symptoms.

You can read more research and access full papers at the IFS Research Database

Question 11

Are sessions Confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Confidentiality is the backbone of therapy. There are very few instances where I would ever break the confidentiality without your permission, and these involve seriously high risk of harm to self of others, money laundering, drug trafficking, and acts of terrorism. There are other instances where we may mutually agree for me to break confidentiality, such as talking to your GP or other medical professionals.

Question 12

Are you Supervised?

Accepted Answer

Yes. I meet regularly with an IFS supervisor, peer group, and a local colleague that I share my office with, exceeding BACP requirements. All supervision is confidential and any client details are anonymised.

Question 13

Can I combine IFS therapy with other therapies?

Accepted Answer

The general rule is you can only have one therapist at a time.

There are some exceptions. It can be OK to have a personal therapist if you’re also in a separate couples therapy process, so long as the couple’s therapist is aware. I also can work alongside your clinical psychologist or psychiatrist if need be, so long as they are in agreement.

Question 14

What happens if I miss a session?

Accepted Answer

Less than 24 hours’ notice: 100% session fee
24 hours – 3 days’ notice: 50% session fee
More than 3 days’ notice: No fee

Question 15

How do I communicate with you between sessions?

Accepted Answer

I prefer to receive emails and Whatsapp messages.

Contact between sessions is for logistics such as attendance.

Question 16

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

Send me a message through my contact page here.

counselling & psychotherapy

FAQ's