With Sarah Therapy
How We Work

Our Sessions & FAQ

This page answers some common questions about how I work and what you can expect from counselling and hypnotherapy sessions.

I am a pluralistic therapist, which means I draw from a range of therapeutic approaches — including CBT, psychodynamic, humanistic and hypnotherapy — allowing me to tailor our work to suit your individual needs.

I am a registered and accredited member of the National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society (NCPS) and the National Hypnotherapy Society.

Yes. What you share stays between us, with the only exceptions being rare situations where there are serious safety concerns, which we would always discuss together.

In our first session, we'll take things gently and explore what has brought you to therapy, what you're hoping for, and any questions you may have. I'll also begin to get a sense of your key life experiences so I can support you in a way that feels right for you.

Research shows that the relationship between you and your therapist plays a huge role in how well therapy works. It's important that you feel comfortable, safe, and supported from the start. I offer a free 15-minute call so you can get a sense of my approach and ask any questions. As we work together, we'll keep checking in to make sure the therapy is giving you what you need.

Our sessions last 50 minutes and, for the best outcomes, we will usually meet weekly. There's no fixed number of sessions, because everyone's needs and goals are different. Some people benefit from a short series of sessions, while others prefer longer-term support.

  • Counselling can be short-term or longer-term. Many people find 6–12 sessions helpful for a specific issue or life event. Others choose 12–24 sessions or more for deeper reflection. Longer-term therapy is also an option.
  • Hypnotherapy often works in shorter, focused blocks. For anxiety, confidence, stress or habits, most people benefit from 3–6 sessions. Phobias often respond well to 3–4 sessions. Smoking cessation is usually 1–2 intensive sessions, with optional follow-ups.
Areas I Work With

Some of the things I can help you with

Emotional Wellbeing

AnxietyAnger & frustrationBurnoutEmotional regulationFeeling stuck or lostLonelinessLow moodStress & overwhelm

Self-Esteem & Confidence

Assertiveness & boundariesConfidence buildingImposter syndromeLow self-esteemNegative self-talk

Life Transitions

Breakups or divorceIdentity changesMoving homeRedundancyRelationship changesRetirementWork-related stress

Trauma & Past Experiences

Building resilienceChildhood experiencesEmotional woundsFeeling triggeredProcessing difficult memories

Grief & Loss

Anticipatory griefBereavementLoss of identity or roleLoss of a relationship

Relationships & Interpersonal

Boundary settingCommunication difficultiesFamily stressFriendship issuesPeople-pleasing

Stress-Related Issues

Mind–body stress responsesNervous system overwhelmOverthinkingSleep problems

Personal Growth & Self-Understanding

Emotional resilienceSelf-awarenessExploring patternsFinding directionCoping strategiesUnderstanding emotions
Specific to Hypnotherapy

Focused hypnotherapy support

Habits & Behaviour Change

Healthier routinesDrinking habitsEmotional eatingNail bitingMotivation & focusSmoking cessationSugar cravings

Phobias & Specific Fears

Fear of animalsFear of drivingEnclosed spacesFear of flyingFear of needlesPublic speakingHeights

Performance & Focus

Concentration & clarityExam confidenceInterview preparationPublic speakingSports performance

Sleep & Relaxation

Bedtime anxietyDeep relaxation trainingDifficulty switching offInsomniaRestless sleep
Registered & Accredited Member Of
National Counselling & Psychotherapy SocietyNational Hypnotherapy Society

Take a gentle first step

I offer a free 15-minute telephone consultation so we can get a sense of whether we're a good fit — no pressure, no commitment.