What to Expect in Therapy | A Supportive & Personalized Approach

Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but knowing what to expect can help you feel more at ease. As a native English-speaking psychologist, I provide a compassionate, structured approach to online therapy for expats. This page will walk you through how sessions work, what you can expect from our work together, and how therapy can help you navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity and confidence.

Your Therapy Experience: What to Expect in Sessions

What to Expect: Initial ConsultationWe will begin with a Zoom consultation (15–25 minutes) to establish a connection, clarify your needs, and ensure that you feel confident in my ability to support you. This is a space for you to ask any questions about my approach to therapy and how we can work together.
• Introduction and ConfidentialityI’ll introduce myself and explain confidentiality policies so you know that what you share is private and secure.
• Discussion of ConcernsYou’ll have the opportunity to discuss challenges you’re facing, whether they involve mental health symptoms, emotional struggles, trauma, life stressors or specific events you need help processing.
• Assessment of NeedsI’ll ask open-ended questions to better understand your background, emotional state and symptoms, ensuring we create a structured and individualized plan for your therapy.
• Explanation of Therapeutic ApproachI’ll introduce the evidence-based therapies I use (CPT, DBT, ACT, CBT) and explain how they will help you build skills and strategies to navigate challenges effectively.
• Questions and ClarificationYou’ll have the opportunity to ask anything about the therapy process, my experience or what to expect from our sessions.
• Setting Clear, Actionable Goals My therapy approach is pragmatic and goal-oriented. Together, we will identify specific, achievable goals that will guide our work. Every session is designed to ensure you’re actively learning, growing and making tangible progress toward healing.
• Next StepsIf we agree to move forward, we will schedule your first session, discuss fees and set expectations for future sessions.

What to Expect in Your Therapy Sessions: A Pragmatic, Goal-Oriented ApproachTherapy with me is not just about talking—it’s about creating real change. Every session is designed to ensure you learn, grow and actively apply new strategies in your daily life. Clients often tell me they leave each session with a new tool, insight or perspective that they can immediately use.
• A Personalised Session PlanEach session is 50 minutes, conducted via a secure Zoom link. You are welcome to bring up any topics you need support with, but if you’re ever unsure what to discuss, I will have an individualized session plan ready, based on your goals.
• Follow-Up Support After Each SessionAfter each session, you will receive a detailed follow-up email that includes:
• Homework assignments tailored to your therapy goals
• Key psychoeducation points to deepen understanding
• Practical tools from CPT, DBT, ACT and CBT that you can start using immediately

Therapy Duration and Commitment
• Trauma-Focused Therapy with CPTCPT is a highly effective, evidence-based therapy for trauma and PTSD/CPTSD.It requires a commitment of 12 structured sessions to achieve meaningful results.
• Short-Term TherapyMany clients who are committed to their growth and healing need only 5–8 sessions, followed by check-in sessions every 3 weeks as needed.• Longer-Term SupportClients recovering from complex trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, or ongoing life stressors often require longer-term therapy.• Ongoing Availability & Emergency SessionsI understand that healing isn't always linear, and challenges may arise between sessions. I am available via email to answer questions, provide additional guidance, and offer emergency sessions when needed.
‍Why Choose Therapy with Me? A Structured, Practical ApproachEvery session is designed to help you gain new insights, learn practical tools and make measurable progress.• Evidence-Based MethodsI use CPT,DBT, ACT, and CBT, therapies proven to help with trauma, anxiety, grief, and emotional regulation.
• Flexibility & AccessibilityAccess therapy from anywhere in Europe, without the hassle of commuting.• Specialized Support for ExpatsAs an English-speaking therapist who has lived in Europe since 2017, I understand the unique challenges of expat life.

My Approach

Initial Consultation: Understanding Your NeedsWe’ll start with a brief consultation call to discuss what you’re looking for in therapy, answer any questions you may have and ensure that I am the right fit for your needs.

Collaborative, Goal-Oriented TherapyDuring the first few sessions, I will take the time to understand your experiences, patterns and challenges. Together, we will set clear, actionable goals to help you gain insight, develop coping strategies and create meaningful change in your life.

A Personalized, Flexible Therapy PlanThe number of sessions will vary based on your goals, needs and the type of therapy we use. Some clients benefit from short-term therapy (5–8 sessions), while others, particularly those working through complex trauma or anxiety, may require longer-term support. Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), which is highly effective for trauma recovery, requires a commitment of 12 structured sessions for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do our therapy sessions take place and how long are they?

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Sessions take place online via Zoom. I will send you a secure Zoom link prior to our scheduled session. Each therapy session is 50 minutes.

What are the different types of therapy?

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I approach individual therapy by accessing a variety of therapeutic methods that have a scientific track record of success with people who have complex problems. Elements of following types of therapy may be used as I work with you to meet your goals and improve your quality of life. If an individual prefers a specific type of therapy, it may become a key part of our therapeutic plan.
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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based treatment that helps people with a variety of mental health problems. It is based on the premise that psychological issues result from a correlation of thoughts, beliefs, emotions, actions and life situations. CBT involves (a) learning to identify patterns of emotions, thinking and actions; (b) adjust behaviours with new coping strategies, engage in flexible thinking, and; (c) reach key goals and improve well-being and fulfilment.
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Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based treatment that helps people who experience a variety of complex emotional problems. DBT is an effective treatment that assists people to more effectively manage their emotions and interpersonal relationships. DBT teaches mindfulness, emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness and distress tolerance skills.
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Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an evidence-based treatment that teaches individuals to limit their avoidance and denial of complicated emotions. Through acceptance, practitioners learn to observe their emotions as appropriate responses to particular situations; and accept life's challenges. With this knowledge, individuals may commit to making important behavioural changes.

Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is an evidence-based form of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) that helps individuals challenge their unhelpful thoughts and beliefs around past traumatic events. It is not necessary to share your trauma account to successfully be treated with PTSD.

Motivational Interviewing is a compassionate, goal-oriented approach that encourages positive behavioural changes. This collaborative style helps individuals explore their own motivations for change and supports them in strengthening your commitment to achieving personal goals.

Mindfulness involves tuning into the present moment with intention and without judgment. Whether through formal meditation or simply bringing awareness to daily activities, mindfulness helps cultivate self-acceptance and reduce stress. Integrating mindfulness into therapy can promote a greater sense of ease and freedom in everyday life.

Yoga Therapy combines the physical and mental benefits of yoga with therapeutic principles. Through postures, meditation, breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques, yoga therapy helps balance both body and mind, calm the nervous system, and foster a deeper connection to the present moment.

What is a 'trauma-informed' psychology practice?

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As a trauma-informed psychologist, I bring deep expertise in understanding the nature of traumatic events and their profound impact on mental health and overall well-being. Trauma affects not only individuals but also minority groups and entire communities, and I am attuned to the far-reaching consequences that it can have on people’s lives. My priority in working with trauma survivors is to create a safe, supportive environment where re-traumatisation is actively prevented. I approach individuals with compassion and validation, acknowledging the significance of their experiences. Together, we explore the effects of trauma and how it may manifest in your daily life, while providing psycho-education to help you understand the emotional, psychological and physical responses that often accompany traumatic experiences. Through this trauma-informed approach, I aim to empower survivors, fostering healing and resilience as we work together toward healing and growth.

What type of therapy is best for me?

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During our initial consultation, and the course of our therapy, we will work together to ensure that your goals are being met and that the sessions are beneficial. This may include using a variety of therapeutic interventions that will be used when appropriate.

How long will I be in therapy?

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Many people report that speaking to a non-judgemental and supportive psychologist even once improves their well-being. Effective therapy may take anywhere from 5-12 sessions, and even longer depending on the individual and their reasons for seeking therapy.

What happens during the first session?

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The first session allows us to get to know each other. I will ask you about your past, why you are seeking support, what has been working, what has not been working, etc. We will discuss your goals and what you are hoping to gain out of therapy. I work with people to provide a trusting, empathetic and nonjudgemental environment to explore and make changes; to improve individuals' lives in ways that they may not have believed was possible.

What are the costs for working with you? What is your cancellation fee?

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The fee for one 50 minute remote session is €110. I offer a sliding-scale fee option for individuals residing in countries outside of Western Europe, students and clients experiencing financial hardship. This option can be discussed during our consultation. In addition to our 50-minute therapy sessions, I provide a detailed follow-up email after each session. This includes personalized homework, psychoeducation, journal prompts, and other practical tools to support your healing journey. These resources help reinforce what we discuss in therapy and provide you with ongoing guidance between sessions.

Cancellation Fees:
Cancellations within 48 hours before our scheduled appointment are charged a cancellation fee of 50% the cost of one session.
Cancellations within 24 hours before our scheduled appointment are charged a cancellation fee of the full cost of one session.