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 free introductory session or telephone chat before booking?
I do not offer free introductory sessions or telephone consultations before booking an Initial Assessment Session. My website has been designed to provide detailed information about who I am, my qualifications, experience, therapeutic approach, areas of specialism, fees, and what you can expect from the counselling process. I hope this enables you to make an informed decision about whether I may be the right therapist for you.
To ensure I remain fully available to my existing clients and can offer timely appointments to new clients, I am unfortunately unable to accommodate requests for complimentary introductory sessions or telephone consultations. If, after reading the information on my website, you feel that I may be the right therapist for you, I would be delighted to welcome you for an Initial Assessment Session, where we can explore your concerns in depth, discuss your goals, and decide together whether we are a good therapeutic fit.
Choosing the right therapist is an important decision, and the Initial Assessment Session gives us both the opportunity to consider whether we feel we can work together effectively. There is never any obligation to book further sessions.
Booking Sessions:
How should I get in touch?
The easiest way to enquire is by email or via the online booking form. This allows me to respond thoughtfully and ensures I can continue to give my full attention to clients during working hours. If we decide to work together, there will be plenty of opportunity to discuss your concerns during your Initial Assessment Session and subsequent sessions.
Please note: I am usually unable to answer telephone calls whilst in session. If I am unavailable, please email me with your enquiry, and I will respond as soon as I am able.
How can I book an Initial Assessment Session?
You can book online here: Book a session with Nina Guha.
How long does an Initial Assessment Session last?
An Initial Assessment Session can last up to 50 minutes. Longer sessions (1 hr 40 mins) can be arranged on request, at an additional cost.
What happens during the Initial Assessment Session?
The Initial Assessment Session 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. The frequency can be tailored to your needs. We’ll discuss this at your Initial Session.
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.
How long does an Initial Couples Therapy Session last?
An Initial Couples Therapy Session can last up to 50 minutes. Longer sessions (1 hr 40 mins) can be arranged on request, at an additional cost.
What is Relationship / Family Therapy 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.
How long does an Initial Relationship / Family Therapy Session last?
An Initial Relationship / Family Therapy Session can last up to 50 minutes. Longer sessions (1 hr 40 mins) can be arranged on request, at an additional cost.
How does Making Tax Digital (MTD) Sessions work?
MTD sessions are organised online on Zoom. They are structured, relaxed and tailored to suit to your needs. Together we reduce the stress and uncertainty surrounding your finances, create a simple bookkeeping system that works for you, organise your income and expenses, understand bookkeeping categories and record keeping, prepare for Making Tax Digital (MTD), review your current bookkeeping and answer your questions.
How long does a MTD Session last?
A MTD online Session can last up to 50 minutes. Longer sessions (1 hr 40 mins) can be arranged on request, at an additional cost.
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 4 – 6 (agreed at the Initial Session), 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 a Senior Accredited member of both the British Association of Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP) & the National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society (NCPS), 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.