What is Psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy is a “talking treatment” that helps people understand their feelings and equip them to overcome difficult situations more adaptively. Anyone who is feeling overwhelmed by their problems and unable to cope will be able to benefit from psychotherapy. This space allows you to freely express yourself without fear of judgement or criticism, and it is where you can be yourself!

The aim of this treatment is to find tools and resources which improve an individual’s well-being and mental health. It also helps to mitigate troublesome behaviours, beliefs, thoughts, or emotions and to improve relationships and social skills.

Is Psychotherapy/Counselling for me?

Sometimes you may feel overwhelmed and unable to cope with daily tasks. Other times, you may just wish to talk and want someone who ‘gets you’ to listen without any judgments or reprimands. In the initial session, we will explore why you have come for counselling and your therapy goals. You would also be able to ascertain if Ilkay Alici Psychotherapy is the right place for you and if we can work together in a therapeutic relationship. There is no obligation to return to counselling if you don’t feel like the service is the right fit for you, as it is essential to find someone who can support you in your journey.

How do I contact you?

For an initial consultation, you can send me an email stating your availability, a little history about yourself and your goal for therapy. I will respond to you within 48 hours during weekdays. Alternatively, you can fill out the contact form on my website or book directly through my online booking form, and I will be in touch with you to arrange a suitable date and time for your assessment.

Can I cancel an appointment after booking?

I operate a 48-hour cancellation policy at Ilkay Alici Counselling and Psychotherapy services. If you cancel or reschedule your appointment within 48 hours, you will not be charged for that session. However, the full charge will be incurred if cancellation is in less than 48 hours.

How many sessions do I need?

I offer both long- and short-term psychotherapy/counselling sessions depending on what your immediate and long-term needs are. This is usually discussed as the sessions progress, with a review every 6 weeks. We will contract initially for 6 sessions and if you feel like you need more sessions, we can continue with an open-ended contract and will discuss an ending as it approaches and when you feel ready to end. Sessions take place on a weekly basis, and for more information on how to get the best out of therapy, kindly get in touch by filling out the contact form indicating so.

Where can I get urgent help?

If someone’s life is at risk, for example, they have seriously self-harmed or overdosed – Call 999.

If you need someone to talk to, you can contact Samaritans, a charity that offers a free listening service which is confidential. This service is run by volunteers and is for anyone in distress 24 hours a day. Call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org to access this service.

For more mental health crisis numbers check out the link below:

https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/guides-to-support-and-services/crisis-services/helplines-listening-services/