Frequently asked questions

You can book directly through my online booking page, or email me at info@geistlife.co.uk if you’d prefer to connect first. I offer sessions in person (in St Albans) and online across the UK and internationally.

If you’re feeling unsure—about therapy, timing, or whether this space is for you—you’re not alone. You’re welcome to reach out with questions. There’s no pressure to commit. One small step is enough to begin.

The first session is a starting point. You don’t need to prepare or explain everything. We’ll explore what’s brought you here, what kind of support you’re looking for, and whether this feels like the right space for you.

Some clients arrive with a clear focus. Others just know something needs attention. Either is welcome. You’re not committing to ongoing work—just taking a step to see how it feels.

Yes. What you share in therapy stays within the boundaries of this work. I don’t discuss our sessions outside of this space.

There are a few legal and ethical exceptions—for example, if there’s serious risk of harm, or if I’m required by law to disclose information. We’ll go over these in our first session so you’re fully informed.

I also speak about my work in clinical supervision, as required by the BACP and NCPS. These conversations support the quality of the work and don’t include identifying details. I keep brief notes in line with GDPR, securely stored. You’re welcome to request them at any time.

Sessions last 50 minutes. Once we begin, the same time and day is held for you each week.

In the early stages, weekly sessions are important. They help create the consistency needed for deeper work, and allow us to follow what’s unfolding without interruption. For many clients, this regular time becomes a steady point in a full week—supporting focus, reflection, and change.

That depends on what you’re bringing and what you need. Some people come for a focused period. Others stay longer.

We usually begin weekly. Over time, some clients continue with that rhythm, others shift to fortnightly or pause and return when something new arises. The process is collaborative—we shape it together based on what feels useful and sustainable.

Sessions are £90. Payment is made by bank transfer after each session.

I offer a small number of concession spaces for students and trainee counsellors. In some cases, a sliding scale can be discussed. If cost is a concern, you’re welcome to raise it—we can talk it through.

I ask for at least 48 hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule a session. If less notice is given, the full fee is charged.

Where possible, I’ll try to offer an alternative time that same week—but this isn’t always available.

Yes—I also offer sessions in Russian.

Possibly. I offer online sessions internationally. Whether we can work together depends on the laws in your country, and guidance from my professional bodies (BACP and NCPS).

If you’re based abroad and want to explore working together, feel free to get in touch. If I’m not able to work with you where you are, I may be able to recommend someone who can.

I work with adults aged 18 and over. If you’re looking for support for someone younger, I can signpost you to trusted therapists who specialise in that area.

It can be. Some people find it easier to open up from their own space, while others value being physically in the room. Both ways of working can offer depth, focus, and connection.

We can take time to explore what feels most supportive. If at any point online therapy isn’t working for you, we’ll pause and review together.

I work from a quiet space on Holywell Hill in St Albans, right opposite one of my favourite bookshops, Books on the Hill. It’s a short walk from the city centre and Abbey train station, with nearby parking available. Full details are shared upon booking.

No, I don’t accept insurance. Working independently from insurance providers means we’re not limited by set session numbers, required diagnoses, or predefined treatment plans. This gives us the freedom to shape the work around you—your pace, your needs, your process. It also ensures that what we explore stays just between us, without third-party involvement. For many of the people I work with, especially those navigating trauma, neurodivergence, or intense internal landscapes, this kind of flexibility and confidentiality is key to feeling safe and doing meaningful work.

Yes. If it helps to ask something first or get a feel for how I work, you’re welcome to get in touch. A brief exchange can offer clarity before you decide.

Yes. If you’re looking for a one-off conversation or a short-term focus around something specific, we can explore whether that would be supportive for you.