Online Therapy
Online therapy, also known as teletherapy or remote therapy, has become an increasingly popular option for those seeking mental health support and treatment. Accessing therapy online offers a number of advantages over traditional in-person sessions:
1. Convenience and Accessibility - Online therapy eliminates the need to commute to a therapist's office, making it much more convenient, especially for those with busy schedules or limited transportation options. Clients can simply log on from the comfort of their own home or anywhere they have an internet connection.
2. Privacy and Comfort - Many people feel more at ease and willing to open up in the privacy of their own personal space, rather than in an unfamiliar therapist's office. This can foster a stronger therapeutic relationship and lead to more productive sessions.
3. Continuous Care - Online therapy makes it easier to keep up with regular sessions, even when travelling or during times of disruption. This consistency can be incredibly valuable for maintaining progress and managing ongoing mental health conditions. **
4. Cost-Effectiveness - Online therapy is often more affordable than traditional in-person care, as therapists can operate with lower overhead costs. The insurers I work with also cover remote therapy appointments, just the same as they do for in-person sessions.
What's unique about clinical psychologists?
It's important to understand the distinctions between the different types of professionals you may encounter - clinical psychologists, counsellors, and therapists all sound like they do a very similar job. And we do! But there are differences...
Clinical psychologists are highly trained mental health professionals who have completed a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in clinical psychology. They are licensed and regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), which means the title "clinical psychologist" is a protected title that can only be used by those who meet the HCPC's strict registration requirements. Clinical psychologists are qualified to provide assessment, diagnosis, and evidence-based psychological treatments for a wide range of mental health conditions.
Counsellors and Therapists. In contrast, counsellors and therapists in the UK have a more varied educational background and scope of practice. These professionals may hold qualifications ranging from a diploma to a master's degree. They are not regulated by the HCPC. Counsellors and therapists offer talking therapies and emotional support for a variety of issues, such as relationship difficulties, grief, addiction, and more. However, they are not qualified to provide clinical diagnoses. Their specific areas of expertise and therapeutic approaches can vary widely. It's important to note that the terms "counsellor" and "therapist" are not legally protected titles in the UK. This means that anyone can use these titles, regardless of their level of training or qualifications.
These differences mean that individuals seeking mental health support should thoroughly research the credentials and experience of any counsellor or therapist they are considering. This helps ensure you are working with a qualified and ethical practitioner who can provide the most appropriate and effective care for your needs.
Check the register
I am registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). My registration number is PYL32817.
Starting therapy with Leazes Clinical Psychology
1.
You decide that Leazes Clinical Psychology could be the service to best meet your needs. At this point, you may still have some specific questions. You may just want to speak with Dr Alex Hull to see if therapy could be a good fit for you. Either way, you can get in touch in many ways. Use our online booking system, email, call, or use the contact form at the bottom of every page and you'll get a reply, usually within 24 hours.
2.
We speak, and you will (hopefully) have a better idea of whether you think that working with me could be right for you. If you'd like to progress then I ask that you email to confirm this. There is no rush and no obligation to do so.
3.
Once you've emailed, we will agree a time that suits you for our first session. I will also send you a couple of simple forms to review and complete.
4.
Ahead of our first session, you will receive an invoice and a Zoom link. All you need to do is click this link and you will join the session at the agreed time. Once we meet, we can discuss your goals for therapy in more detail. Every course of therapy progresses and ends in different ways. We will always take time to be clear about your goals and thoughts on progress as we work together.