FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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What happens in our initial session?
The first meeting will be centered around us getting to know each other a little, seeing whether we are the right fit for working together and answering any questions you may have about focusing or what you'd like to get out of it. If you want to, we can also do a little bit of focusing as a taster.
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Do I have to have set sessions?
In short, no. If it is helpful to have set days and times, that can be arranged. However, if your work shifts or haven't got set working hours, we can organise your sessions to work around your availability.
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Do I have to have a certain number of sessions for focusing to work for me?
It is generally advisable to do 3 sessions before you decide whether focusing is for you. This would give you enough time to learn a little more about it through hands on experience. Saying that, if you don't want to do that, the decision is yours. I have worked with people who took to focusing immediately and with people who took to it at a different pace and built their experience and ability by practicing.
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Can I do focusing over the phone?
Yes, if your time is restricted or you're unable to do focusing over Zoom, this is definitely a possibility. However, I would advise starting on a visual platform. Being able to see each other contributes to our sessions because focusing is a practice that connects you to your body so visual cues can be helpful.
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Can I book a block of sessions?
Of course, if it is helpful for you to get organised in advance and have your sessions planned ahead, we can do that. I would be happy to discuss concessions for blocks of sessions too.
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Would focusing work if I don't have a specific issue to work with?
Yes, it most certainly would. I have worked with people who knew exactly what they wanted to work with in their sessions (whether that was centered around decision making, life long patterns they wanted to explore or anxiety related to pregnancy to give but a few examples), but some people I have worked with have used their sessions as part of their self care regime. They use their sessions as quality time to check in with themselves and give space to anything that might be relevant. So having a specific issue is not a prerequisite.
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Can I use focusing alongside regular/other therapy?
Absolutely, there is no reason why you couldn't do focusing as part of a larger self care program for yourself. As a focusing practitioner, I will not be diagnosing you, passing judgement, advising you on what you should be doing or prescribing anything.
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How much notice do I have to give in order to cancel/change my session?
24hrs notice is advisable. I will try my best to accommodate an alternative time but reserve the right to charge the full fee for the missed session.
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Do you keep records of what happens in our sessions?
No. Focusing is based around listening to the focuser and supporting them on their journey so I have no reason to take notes or record sessions.
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What does a typical focusing session look like?
Typically, we would take a little bit of time at the beginning of the session to check in with each other and "arrive". We would then discuss (if need be) what you would like to work with, if anything. Some people just slot straight into focusing and don't need a transition others prefer being guided in. You would then have your focusing time, leaving a few minutes at the end in case you want to ask anything or discuss anything relating to your session.
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What do I need to do to prepare for a session?
Absolutely nothing. By all means, have a think about a specific topic/area/issue you would like to work with if you want to do that but in practical terms, all you need is an open mind and a willingness to try something new.
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When and how do I pay?
You can pay by bank transfer on the day or upfront for bulk sessions.
