What is single session therapy (SST)?
It’s where a therapist and client work together to help the client in one session, knowing that more help is available if needed.
Can you explain the process involved in your SST work?
Briefly:
1 You fill in the short form on the Contact page.
(I check it and email you with more details and a short questionnaire.)
2 You return the questionnaire.
(I check the form and, assuming I am happy to work with you, I confirm this. If for any reason I have reservations about the appropriateness of SST, I will discuss this with you)
3 You pay the fee
(I set the appointment)
4 We meet online or on the phone for the session
(Towards the end of the session we agree a date and time for a follow up phone call.)
5 About a month later we speak again on the phone
Can I return for further sessions?
Certainly.
At the follow-up call, we can discuss the options.
Generally, we will look at the alternatives of
(a) returning for a further single session,
(b) booking a block of between 6 to 12 weekly 50 minute sessions, or
(c) signposting to an experienced therapist in your area.
How much will it cost?
The cost of SST is £60.
This includes the session, follow up call and my preparation time.
(Further sessions are charged at £60 per 50 minute session.)
I’m not sure I could afford that. Is there any way you could reduce the fee?
Yes, occasionally, in appropriate circumstances. I am happy to talk through the options.
Do you work face to face in person?
Currently, no.
How long will I have to wait?
You don’t.
Once you have filled in the short enquiry form on the Contact page, I will email further details to you.
In a very real way, when you fill in the short questionnaire you will have started the work.
As soon as I receive the form back from you and you make the payment I will offer you an appointment within a week, or two at the most.
The point of SST is that it is delivered at the point of need. No long waiting lists of months and months.
What’s the difference between SST and other kinds of counselling?
We focus on one area of difficulty and see where your strengths can help your weaknesses.
Often, one simple change can have a knock-on effect in other areas of life.
What’s so special about SST?
It’s simple, focused, convenient, accessible, and overall less costly than a course of week-on-week therapy work.
Data collated over the last four decades show that the majority of clients who work for a single session are satisfied with the outcome.
And if more help is sought, it is available.
If SST is such a no-brainer, why isn’t it more readily available?
Although various models of SST have been around now for over 40 years, it’s only really been rolled out in a few settings, mainly in the USA and Australia.
Sometimes it takes a generation or so for systems to change.
But, in reality, it’s been around forever.
How does online therapy differ from face to face therapy?
Video conferencing technology has developed rapidly in recent years,
And most people are now familiar with it, especially since lockdown.
Yes, we won’t be sitting in the same room physically, but for most people this isn’t a hindrance.
And some people find it more comfortable.
(Quite apart from the convenience of meeting without the hassle, time and cost of travel.)
I don’t like the experience of video conferencing. Can we hold the session over the phone?
Yes. Absolutely. Your choice entirely.
What happens if the video conferencing platform has technical problems?
We continue the session by phone.
How old do I have to be?
Age 18 and upwards.
Can I have someone with me in the session?
Therapy works best in private between two people.
But in some cases (which will be exceptional) I’m happy for you to have someone with you. We can discuss this.
What if I have to cancel the session?
Not a problem. We will rearrange it for the next available time slot.
What can SST help me with?
People seek help for a wide range of difficulties including stress, burnout, depression, anxiety, conflict at work, relationship problems, communication breakdown, procrastination, change, bereavement and other losses, panic, uncertainty about the future, or just generally getting stuck.
To name a few.
Do you have a client agreement with details of your terms and conditions?
Yes. It’s here.