Free first meeting
I offer a free first exploratory meeting, for up to an hour, so you can see if I might be a good match for you and if my approach might suit you.
This meeting gives you a chance to ask me any questions you may have, and it allows me to learn a little about why you are thinking about starting therapy.
We can briefly discuss your concerns, your situation and background, and your hopes and wishes.
This meeting also allows me to make sure my approach is likely to be helpful to you.
"There is something wonderfully bold and liberating about saying yes to our entire imperfect and messy life."
Tara Brach
My availability:
At present, I have no free spaces available in my weekly schedule.
Please note, I only work in person, not with people living away from Devon using video or phone.
"Just as the ocean always tastes of salt, so the truth always tastes of freedom."
The Buddha
Meeting each other in person
This free first exploratory meeting gives us the chance to meet each other in person.
Every therapist has their own personality and way of being, and their own particular skills, gifts, knowledge, life experience and training.
So it is important that you meet me before making any decisions about working with me.
I will also use this meeting to assess your needs carefully, to ensure my approach is going to be suitable for you, or to point you towards other more appropriate resources.
Please call me, or email, if you would like to arrange this first meeting.
If we decide to go further together after this first meeting, please see below, and here, for the next steps.
"Give yourself up neither to the past nor to the future. The important thing is to remain wholly in the present."
Karl Jaspers
After our first meeting
We won't make a decision, either of us, at this first meeting.
You will need a little time to reflect on this significant commitment to weekly therapy that you are considering.
I will need to sense whether I am going to be the best person for you or not, and I will suggest other therapists or other approaches if I think they are more suited to you.
In addition, reading this brief article by John Welwood may help you decide whether this approach calls you or not.
Finally, I always suggest to anyone looking to start psychotherapy and counselling that you meet at least three different therapists, as part of the process of finding the right person for you.
The journey to finding the right therapist is too important to be rushed, or taken lightly, so take the time and meet as many people as you need before making your commitment to therapy.
“Any human anywhere will blossom in a hundred unexpected talents and capacities simply by being given the opportunity to do so.”
Doris Lessing
