FAQs
Getting Started:
I’ve never had therapy before and feel nervous. Can I do anything to prepare?
It’s completely normal to feel nervous — many clients do, and sometimes I feel nervous too about meeting new clients! A lovely book called “Therapy is… magic” by Jo Love can help you prepare. It guides you through the therapy process and offers practical tips for getting started.
Can I have a brief telephone chat before booking an Initial consultation?
Yes, I’m happy to have a short phone call if it helps you feel more comfortable. Please note that this is just a brief chat and not a full therapy session. If you have a lot to discuss, I recommend booking an Initial consultation instead.
Booking Sessions:
How can I book an Initial consultation?
You can book online here: Book a session with Nina Guha.
How long does an Initial consultation last?
Up to 50 minutes. Longer sessions can be arranged on request, at an additional cost.
What happens during the Initial consultation?
The Initial consultation is your opportunity to meet me, discuss what you’re looking for help with, and learn how I can support you. We’ll also cover practical details such as session frequency and logistics. If you decide to continue, I will email you details on how to pay in advance for a block of sessions.
Can I have a one-off session instead of regular weekly sessions?
Yes! I offer Single Session Therapy (SST), ideal for occasional support. SST provides a flexible, empathetic space for reflection, guidance, and gaining new perspectives. Booking is the same as a regular session; your Initial consultation effectively becomes your SST slot.
How often will I have sessions?
Most clients have weekly sessions, but the frequency can be tailored to your needs. We’ll discuss this at your Initial consultation.
What day of the week will I have ongoing sessions?
Typically, sessions are booked on the same day and time each week. Some flexibility is possible to accommodate shift work or other commitments.
Therapy Types:
What type of therapy will I have?
I practice Integrative Counselling & Psychotherapy, combining elements from various therapy approaches. Sessions are client-led and tailored to your individual needs and circumstances.
What is Integrative Counselling?
Integrative therapy focuses not just on what works, but why it works, ensuring the therapy is adapted to you rather than asking you to adapt to the therapy.
How does Couples therapy work?
Couples sessions are structured and directive. I remain impartial, observe dynamics, and reflect back patterns to raise awareness. The work focuses on communication, empathy, negotiation, compromise, and growth, rather than placing blame.
What is Relationship / Family Counselling and how is it different from Couples therapy?
Relationship or Family Counselling can involve more than two people and focuses on communication, conflict resolution, and the functioning of the relationship system. Using a systemic model, I help everyone understand dynamics, express feelings safely, and explore solutions collaboratively. The work is growth-focused and non-judgmental.
Do you offer ‘Walk & Talk’ therapy sessions?
Yes, these are available April – October, weather permitting. Walk & Talk is suitable for certain clients, but privacy considerations mean it’s not right for everyone. We always start with an Initial session face-to-face or online to determine suitability before moving to Walk & Talk sessions.
What is an ADHD Pre-diagnostic Screening Assessment?
A Pre-diagnostic Screening Assessment (QbCheck) is not a formal diagnosis of ADHD. QbCheck is a useful tool that offers a comprehensive screen to determine the likelihood of ADHD being present in a person. QbCheck provides qualified professionals with objective measurements of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention to aid in the assessment of ADHD and in the evaluation of treatment interventions for individuals with ADHD. QbCheck is an FDA cleared and CE marked device that can strengthen ADHD referrals and assessments.
Session Logistics:
How much will my session cost?
Please refer to the Fees page.
When do I have to pay for my Initial consultation?
Payment is required in advance via this link. Sessions not paid for in advance are considered cancelled.
How do I pay for ongoing sessions?
Regular sessions are usually booked in blocks of four, paid in advance by BACS. Payment details are provided after your Initial consultation, and confirmation emails are sent once payment is received.
Can I reschedule or cancel my session?
Yes, with at least 48 hours’ notice. Cancellations with less than 48 hours’ notice incur the full session fee, except in exceptional circumstances.
Is parking available on site?
Yes, free parking is available.
Can I bring someone along?
For individual sessions, only with prior agreement (e.g., interpreter). For Couple, Family, or Relationship sessions, all parties involved attend together.
Professional Standards:
Are you a member of any recognised regulatory bodies?
Yes, I am an accredited member of the BACP, which sets strict standards for training, ethics, and practice in the UK. I adhere to their ethical framework in all my work.
How do you keep your clinical knowledge up to date?
I attend a minimum of 30 hours of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) each year and receive regular supervision from a BACP & UKCP registered supervisor.
Can you provide a letter confirming my therapy attendance?
Yes. Letters confirming session dates are free for active clients. More detailed letters, or letters after 30 days since the last session, incur a full session fee, payable in advance.
Online & Telephone Therapy:
How do online video sessions work?
Sessions are conducted via WhatsApp or Zoom on your laptop, mobile, or PC. You’ll need a quiet, private space and a reliable internet connection. Online therapy is convenient but may not suit all presenting issues.
How do telephone sessions work?
Telephone sessions also require a quiet, private space. Keep a drink nearby, and consider practicalities such as timing and privacy when scheduling.
How can I access WhatsApp or Zoom for sessions?