Question 1

Am I the best person to help you?

Accepted Answer

Finding the best fit for you is crucial, as research suggests that the most 'active ingredient' in therapy is the relationship. The initial consultation is designed to explore this idea of best fit. My primary areas of expertise include adjustment to physical health conditions (such as brain injuries, lifelong conditions, cancer, autoimmune conditions, and pain), trauma, low mood, anxiety, OCD, depression, and working with carers.

Question 2

What is your chosen approach?

Accepted Answer

My primary therapeutic approach is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), pronounced as a single word. I have extensive training in applying ACT to various presentations and have published peer-reviewed research on this therapy. Additionally, I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR). Depending on your individual needs, I may also incorporate Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and systemically informed practices.

Question 3

How much are sessions?

Accepted Answer

Ongoing therapy is based on 50 minute sessions priced at £150. We do sometimes recommend longer, or shorter, sessions, based on individual needs and specific therapeutic modalities.

For example, EMDR is often recommended for 90 minute sessions. Most other therapies use a standard 50 minute session, however, particularly towards the end of your therapy journey, we may recommend shortening this further. This will be discussed with you.

Question 4

How many therapy sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

The number of sessions needed varies and is best discussed during the initial assessment, as it depends on your specific needs. If you have particular requirements, financially or otherwise, please discuss them with me during the initial appointment. I will do my best to accommodate your needs if clinically appropriate.

Question 5

Do you accept insurance?

Accepted Answer

I currently accept WPA and Bupa Global Insurance as standard. If you are based in the Channel Islands, it is likely that you can get this reimbursed - get in touch to discuss more.

Should you wish to pay with a different insurer, please get in touch via the contact form, or email me at admin@drpotterpsychology.co.uk, (admin@drpotterpsychology.co.uk,)and I will see if I can help.

Question 6

I can't afford sessions, what can I do?

Accepted Answer

If you can't afford sessions, there are many low-cost or free options available. Speak to your GP about NHS services, which are often provided initially via online platforms or through IAPT (Improving Access to Psychological Therapies). Charitable organizations like Mind also offer valuable information: https://www.mind.org.uk/. These services provide confidential support from trained volunteers. You can talk about anything troubling you, no matter how difficult: Call 116 123 to talk to Samaritans, text "SHOUT" to 85258 to contact the Shout Crisis Text Line, or if you're under 19, call 0800 1111 to talk to Childline. Please note, these are not crisis services, and we do not provide crisis support. If you are in crisis, call 111 for advice, 999 if you are in immediate danger, or go to your local A&E department.

Question 7

What is a Clinical Psychologist?

Accepted Answer

A Clinical Psychologist is a protected title in the United Kingdom, meaning that anyone using this title must be registered with the HCPC as a 'Practitioner Psychologist' with the specialty of 'Clinical Psychologist'. You can verify registration here: https://www.hcpc-uk.org/check-the-register/. My registration details are PYL36250. Unfortunately, in the UK, anyone can use the title 'Psychologist' without specific requirements or standards. This is different from a Clinical Psychologist who undergoes extensive training and assessment, taking a minimum of 7 years, to qualify and register. This ensures they offer high-quality, science-based therapy. Clinical Psychologists differ from Psychiatrists, who are medical doctors that treat mental health conditions and can prescribe medications. Both are qualified to assess and provide interventions for various mental health difficulties, though there are often philosophical differences between the two professions.

DR POTTER PSYCHOLOGY