Frequently Asked Questions

Self & Shadow Therapy

What kind of therapy do you offer?

Self & Shadow Therapy integrates Solution Focused Hypnotherapy with therapeutic and hypnotic approaches. The work is future-focused and goal-oriented, supporting emotional regulation, insight, and meaningful change. Sessions focus on what you want to move towards, rather than analysing problems in depth.

Is hypnotherapy a substitute for medical or psychiatric treatment?

No. Hypnotherapy is not a replacement for medical or psychiatric care. I do not diagnose medical or psychiatric conditions. If you are currently under the care of a GP, consultant, or mental health professional, you may be asked to seek their approval before starting therapy.

How much do sessions cost?

• Single sessions: £70

• Ongoing therapy: £240 per calendar month (one session per week, up to four sessions)

A limited number of sliding-scale places are available, calculated at approximately 10% of monthly income, with fees ranging from £100–£240 per month. Sliding-scale places require proof of income. If you prefer not to share financial information, you’re welcome to book at the standard rate.

Fees are agreed at the start of therapy and reviewed only if financial circumstances significantly change.

What does the monthly fee include?

The monthly fee reserves a regular weekly therapy space and covers up to four sessions per calendar month. This consistency is an important part of the therapeutic process.

What happens if I miss a session?

Missed sessions cannot be refunded or carried forward. This reflects the commitment involved in holding a regular therapy space for you. Planned breaks or holidays can be discussed in advance wherever possible.

How long are sessions?

Sessions usually last between 60 and 90 minutes, depending on the nature of the work.

How do I pay?

Payment is required in advance or at the time of the session via payment link or bank transfer. Full payment details are provided during booking.

Are sessions online or in person?

Sessions are primarily offered online. You’ll need a private, quiet space and a stable internet connection.

Home visits may be available at my discretion and include an additional £10 per session to cover travel time and costs.

What is your cancellation policy?

At least 24 hours’ notice is required to cancel or reschedule a session. Sessions cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice, or unattended sessions, are charged in full unless there are exceptional circumstances.

Repeated missed sessions may result in therapy being discontinued.

Is what I share confidential?

Yes. Everything discussed in sessions is confidential, except where disclosure is required by law, including:

• Risk of serious harm to you or others

• Court orders

• Safeguarding, terrorism, or money-laundering concerns

Your data is handled in line with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018.

Do you keep notes?

Yes, but they are brief and structured, usually as mind maps or goal-focused bullet points. They are not detailed psychotherapy records. Notes are kept securely and used only to support continuity of care.

Do you talk about other clients’ success stories?

I may occasionally refer to generalised or anonymised examples of progress or coping strategies observed in practice. These examples are:

• Fully anonymised

• Non-identifiable

• Never linked to any individual

No personal data or session details are shared. This approach can help build hope and perspective and is well established in solution-focused work.

You’re welcome to let me know if you’d prefer not to include this in your sessions.

Do you use testimonials?

No. I do not use client testimonials or personal endorsements. This protects client confidentiality and avoids any pressure to share personal experiences publicly. Information about therapy focuses on approach, values, and anonymised examples only.

Is this therapy suitable for crisis situations?

No. This therapy is not suitable for crisis or emergency mental health situations. If you need urgent support, please contact your GP, NHS 111, or emergency services.

What is expected of me as a client?

Therapy is a collaborative process. Your engagement — including listening to any relaxation recordings provided — supports progress. While outcomes can’t be guaranteed, I work ethically and professionally to support you towards your goals.

Can you work with more than one member of the same family?

Yes. Different members of the same family can attend therapy independently. Each person’s confidentiality is fully respected, and information is never shared without explicit consent.

Who can access therapy?

Clients must be 18 years or over and able to give informed consent. Therapy for under-18s is only offered with appropriate parental consent and safeguarding arrangements in place.

What if therapy isn’t the right fit?

I reserve the right to pause or discontinue therapy if continuing isn’t in your best interests, if the therapeutic relationship breaks down, or if there is inappropriate behaviour. Where appropriate, alternative support options may be suggested.

What if I have a complaint?

If you’re unhappy with any aspect of the service, please raise it with me first. If the issue can’t be resolved, you can contact the National Council for Hypnotherapy (NCH) for a formal complaints process.

Do I have to commit long-term?

No. Participation in therapy is voluntary, and you are free to withdraw at any time. Full Terms & Conditions are provided as part of the intake process.