Getting started
Is therapy only for people in crisis?
No. Many people come to therapy because something feels off, stuck or heavier than it used to, long before it becomes a crisis. You don’t need a diagnosis or a dramatic reason to get started. Talking things through early can stop small problems growing.
Do I need to see my GP first?
No. You don’t need a referral or a letter from your GP to see a private therapist. If you’re already talking to your GP about how you feel, or taking medication, it can be helpful to let them know you’re starting therapy, but that’s your choice.
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
Honestly, I think therapy is right for everyone. We all face the challenges of modern life, and there's no reason to do it alone. Think of it less as a last resort and more as having a co-pilot – someone in your corner to help you navigate whatever life throws at you. You don't need to be in crisis, or have a diagnosis, to get started.
What if I've tried therapy before and it didn't help?
That’s more common than you’d think, and it doesn’t mean therapy can’t work for you. The fit between you and the therapist matters enormously, and different approaches suit different people. In our free chat, you can tell me what didn’t work last time, and we can talk about how I’d do things differently.
What should I expect in my first session?
The first session is a conversation. We’ll talk about what’s brought you here, what you’d like to be different, and what’s been getting in the way. There’s nothing to prepare, and you don’t need to have it all worked out. By the end, we’ll both have a clearer idea of how I can help, and you can decide whether you’d like to carry on.
How do I book an appointment?
Simple - just head to the Contact page and drop me a message, or you can reach me by email, WhatsApp or phone. I'll get back to you within one working day to arrange a convenient time for an initial consultation.
Practicalities
How much does it cost?
A 50 minute session with me costs £80. If you're still making up your mind, you can book a free 20-minute introductory call with me to see whether we're a good fit before you pay anything.
Where do you see clients?
I see clients face to face in locations across north and central London. My consulting rooms in Golders Green and Finchley are both easily accessible by road and very close to the Northern Line. Longcroft House in the City is directly opposite Liverpool Street Station. I also offer online sessions by video call to clients anywhere in the UK. If you’re not sure which suits you best, we can talk it through in our free 20-minute chat.
Do you offer online sessions?
Yes - I offer online sessions via Zoom or Google Meet, which means we can work together wherever you are in the UK. I also see clients face-to-face in north and central London. Whether you choose to have therapy online or in person is a matter of personal preference. Online sessions can be more convenient as you don't need to factor in travel time.
Is online therapy as effective as face-to-face?
For many people, yes. Research suggests video therapy can work as well as in-person sessions for common difficulties like anxiety and low mood. You’ll need a private space, a decent internet connection and a device with a camera. Some people find it easier to open up from home.
How long will I need therapy for?
There’s no fixed number of sessions. Most people start with around 12, and then we review together: what’s changed, what hasn’t, and whether to carry on, shift focus or finish. Some people need fewer, and some choose to stay longer. It’s always your decision.
What if I need to cancel?
Please give me at least 48 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or rearrange a session. Sessions cancelled with less notice are treated as missed and charged in full. Life happens, so if something unexpected comes up, just get in touch and we’ll talk it through.
Do you offer reduced fees?
Yes, I keep a small number of reduced-fee places for people who would otherwise struggle to afford therapy. They’re limited, so there may be a wait. If you’d like to be considered, mention it when you get in touch, and we’ll talk about it in our free 20-minute chat.
About Therapy with Mike
Are you a CBT therapist?
Partly. CBT is a big part of my training, and I use it when it suits you, for example to spot unhelpful thought patterns and try new ways of responding. But I’m an integrative therapist, which means I don’t stick to one method. I’ll draw on the most suitable approaches to match your presentation. You don’t need to know the jargon. I’ll explain anything I suggest in plain English
What is integrative therapy?
Integrative therapy means I don’t stick to one method. I combine approaches, such as CBT, ACT and person-centred therapy, and use whatever suits you and what you’re dealing with. You don’t need to know the jargon. I’ll explain anything I suggest in plain English.
What can therapy help with?
I work with people dealing with low mood, anxiety and constant worry, work stress, OCD, low self-esteem, perfectionism, difficult relationships, sex and intimacy, emotional regulation, parenting, neurodiversity and questions of identity. If your reason for coming isn’t on that list, get in touch anyway. We can talk it through in our free chat.
Do you work with neurodivergent clients?
Yes. I have experience working with neurodivergent adults and teens, including people who have only recognised ADHD or autistic traits in themselves late in life. I’ve completed autism awareness training and I have first-hand experience of living with neurodivergent family members. I can’t diagnose ADHD or autism, which needs a specialist assessment, but I can support you with the day-to-day impact and help you see the strengths in how your mind works.
What's the difference between a counsellor, a psychotherapist and a psychologist?
In the UK, “counsellor” and “psychotherapist” overlap a lot, and both involve talking therapy. Counselling is often more focused on current difficulties, while psychotherapy tends to go deeper into patterns, history and behavioural change. “Clinical psychologist” and similar titles are protected, and need doctoral-level training and registration with the HCPC. I’m an integrative therapist and counsellor, I'm a registered member of the BACP, and I'm NCPS accredited. I also hold a psychology degree, but I’m not a clinical psychologist.
Is what I say in therapy confidential?
Absolutely – confidentiality is a key pillar of therapy, so what you tell me stays strictly between us. The only exceptions are if I believe you or someone else is at serious risk of harm, or if I’m legally required to share something. If that ever happens, I’ll talk to you first wherever I can. I’m a registered member of the BACP so I abide by their ethical guidelines. I'm also NCPS accredited.
What do I do if I'm in crisis?
I’m not able to offer emergency or crisis support. If you need urgent help, please call 999 or contact Samaritans on 116 123, which is free and open 24 hours a day.