Your Questions, Answered
You’ll find answers here to some of the questions I’m most often asked.
If there’s anything you’re wondering about that isn’t covered here, please do get in touch using the button below or by emailing me at therapy@shubeckwith.com. I’m always happy to help.
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Taking the first step into therapy can feel daunting, which is why I offer a free 20-minute consultation. This gives us a chance to talk about what’s bringing you to therapy, and for you to ask any questions you may have. It’s also an opportunity to get a sense of whether working together feels like the right fit.
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I work on a one-to-one basis with adults. I don’t currently offer couples therapy.
I welcome clients of all genders, cultural backgrounds, and life experiences. Whether you’re facing a particular difficulty or feeling unsure about where to begin, we can start from wherever you are.
You can read more about some of the areas I have particular interest and experience in, which shape how I understand and approach the work, by visiting this link to my Focus Areas.
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The initial consultation is a chance for us to get a sense of how it feels to talk together. Finding the right therapist is an important factor in successful therapy, so it's important that you feel comfortable with me. Trust your instincts. You might notice whether you feel safe, understood, listened to, and able to begin sharing with me. These are all signs of a good fit.
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As an integrative therapist, I draw on a range of therapeutic approaches to meet your individual needs, with a strong foundation in psychodynamic and person-centred ways of working. This means we may explore how your past experiences, relationships, and patterns are shaping your present, while supporting self-understanding, self-compassion, and change.
I work relationally, with the belief that our relationships, past and present, play an important role in who we are and how we got here. By making sense of these patterns, we can begin to understand what may be keeping you stuck and open up new ways of relating to yourself and others.
At the heart of my work is creating a space where you feel genuinely seen, heard, and supported, as a basis for meaningful change. You can read more about my approach here.
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I hold a Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling, awarded by the Counselling and Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body (CPCAB), alongside Level 3 and Level 2 qualifications in Counselling Studies and Counselling Skills.
I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP Registered Member 417395) and hold their Certificate of Proficiency, which recognises a high standard of safe, ethical, and competent practice.
Alongside my core training, I have undertaken additional professional development in areas including working with cultural competence and intercultural awareness, LGBTQ+ clients, neurodiversity, grief and bereavement, and online and telephone counselling. I am committed to ongoing learning, ensuring my work remains thoughtful, informed, and responsive to the individuals I support.
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Many people come to therapy feeling unsure about where to begin. You don’t need to have anything prepared or know exactly what to say. I can help guide the conversation, especially at the start. Therapy works best when you feel safe and understood.
We can also reflect on any previous experiences of therapy, so we can work in a way that best supports your needs. Every therapist works differently, and finding the right fit really matters. My approach is warm, relational, and responsive to you as an individual.
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The first session is slightly different, as we focus on what’s brought you to therapy and what you might need from it. We’ll talk about what’s been going on for you, what you might hope to gain, and any current challenges you’re facing.
We’ll also cover some practical details, including how I work and confidentiality. There’s no pressure to share anything you’re not comfortable with, and we’ll take things at a pace that feels manageable for you.
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Sessions last for 50 minutes and usually take place weekly. Meeting regularly helps create a sense of continuity and allows the work to develop over time.
After a period of weekly sessions, there can be some flexibility to move to fortnightly sessions where appropriate.
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This varies from person to person. Some people come for a shorter period to focus on a specific issue, while others choose longer-term or open-ended work to explore deeper patterns. We’ll review the work regularly and agree together on the length and focus of the therapy that suits your needs.
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I offer both online and in-person sessions, so we can find an arrangement that feels most comfortable and manageable for you. Some clients also choose a combination of both, depending on what suits their needs.
Online sessions take place via Microsoft Teams or Zoom. In-person sessions are held in Balham and Battersea, South West London. The spaces are quiet, private, and designed to help you feel at ease.
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I typically offer sessions Tuesday to Thursday between 09:30 and 16:00, with occasional availability on Mondays and Fridays. Availability can vary, so please get in touch to discuss current options.
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Sessions are £70 for online therapy and £85 for in-person sessions. Payment is made via bank transfer, in advance of each session. Full details will be shared with you ahead of your first session.
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I ask for at least 48 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or rearrange a session. Sessions cancelled with less notice are charged in full.
I understand that life can be unpredictable, so please do let me know as soon as you can.
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Yes, what you share in therapy is confidential. I am bound by the ethical framework of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), which means I adhere to strict standards of confidentiality and professional practice.
As part of my professional practice, I have regular clinical supervision to support safe and ethical working. In supervision, I may discuss my work, but you would remain anonymous.
There are a small number of exceptions, such as if there are serious concerns about your safety or someone else’s. If this ever became relevant, I would discuss it with you openly wherever possible.
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There isn’t a fixed endpoint, and this can look different for each person. You might begin to notice shifts in how you feel, think, or respond to things, or a greater sense of clarity or steadiness in yourself.
We’ll review this together as we go, so there is space to reflect on what feels helpful and whether anything needs to shift.
When the time feels right for you, we can plan an ending in a way that feels considered and supportive.
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If you feel at immediate risk or in crisis, it’s important to seek urgent support. You can contact your GP, call 111, or 999 in an emergency.
You can also contact Samaritans on 116 123 (free, 24/7) or text SHOUT to 85258 for immediate support.
Therapy with me is not a crisis service, but I can support you in finding the right help for you.