Question 1

How do I book an appointment?

Accepted Answer

Getting started is simple. You can book a free 15-minute telephone consultation by clicking any of the Book a Consultation buttons on my website. This will take you to my secure client portal, where you'll be asked to create an account before choosing a suitable appointment time.If you'd prefer, you're also welcome to get in touch using the contact form, by email, or by phone. I'll be happy to answer any questions you have before arranging an appointment.Following your free consultation we'll agree on a suitable day and time for your ongoing appointments. You'll be able to view and manage your appointments through your secure client portal.Payment is required at least 48 hours before your appointment. If payment hasn't been received by this time, the appointment may be released and made available for others to book.

Question 2

What happens during the free 15-minute consultation?

Accepted Answer

I offer a free 15-minute telephone consultation to give us the opportunity to briefly introduce ourselves and see whether my approach feels like a good fit for you.It's a chance to ask any questions you may have about therapy, talk through what has brought you to seek support, and find out a little more about how I work. There's no pressure to decide during the call, and you're welcome to take some time afterwards to consider whether you'd like to book an assessment session.The consultation isn't a therapy session or assessment, so we won't go into your difficulties in depth. Instead, it's simply an opportunity to help you decide whether working together feels right for you.

Question 3

When do you offer appointments?

Accepted Answer

Appointments are available on Tuesdays for face-to-face sessions, and on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays for online sessions.Availability varies, so please get in touch and I'll be happy to discuss current appointment times and find a slot that works for us both.

Question 4

How many sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your individual goals and what you’d like to work on. NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) guidance usually suggests between 6–20 sessions for common mental health concerns treated with CBT.

Question 5

How frequent will the sessions be?

Accepted Answer

Appointments are usually weekly, based on the research showing that regular, consistent sessions support momentum and meaningful progress. However, session frequency can be reviewed on a case‑by‑case basis, depending on your goals, circumstances and the stage of therapy.

Question 6

What is the difference between video and in-person sessions?

Accepted Answer

Research shows that CBT delivered online is just as effective as CBT delivered in person. The outcomes are the same - what matters most is ﻿﻿﻿your preference, your comfort, and what you need to fully engage. I offer both in‑person and video sessions so you can choose the format that feels right for you.If you opt for video appointments it’s important to choose a quiet, confidential, and distraction-free space where you feel safe and comfortable so you can get the most out of each session.A reliable internet connection and a functioning microphone and camera are needed to take part in video sessions.

Question 7

What platform do you use for video sessions?

Accepted Answer

I use Zoom for online sessions. It offers a secure, encrypted connection and can be used on phones, tablets or computers. Before each appointment, I’ll send you a private link that lets you join easily through your browser, without needing to download anything or create an account.A reliable internet connection and a functioning microphone and camera are needed to take part in video sessions.

Question 8

What if I need to cancel or rearrange an appointment?

Accepted Answer

I understand that sometimes plans change. If you need to cancel or rearrange an appointment, please let me know as soon as possible.To avoid being charged the full session fee, I ask for at least 48 hours' notice. Appointments cancelled with less than 48 hours' notice, or missed appointments, will be charged at the full session fee.You can cancel or rearrange your appointment through the secure client portal, by email at jo@cbtwithjo.co.uk, or by phone on 07848 575786. If I'm unable to answer your call, please leave a voicemail with your name and the date and time of your appointment, and I'll get back to you as soon as I can.

Question 9

Is everything discussed in therapy confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes. What you share during therapy is confidential, and I will respect your privacy. There are some important exceptions where I may need to share information to protect you or someone else’s safety.This may include situations where:There is a serious concern about harm to yourself or someone else.There are concerns about the safety or wellbeing of a child or vulnerable person.I am required to share information as part of my professional responsibilities.Where possible, I will always aim to discuss any concerns with you first and be open about what information may need to be shared.As part of maintaining professional standards, I regularly discuss my clinical work with a qualified supervisor. This is a normal part of ethical therapy practice and supports safe, effective care. Any discussions are handled confidentially, and I take steps to protect your identity and personal information.On occasion, I may use anonymised examples from my work for professional development or supervision purposes. Any recordings of sessions would only take place with your explicit written consent, and there is no requirement for you to agree to this.

Question 10

Can I pay through an insurance company?

Accepted Answer

Yes. I work with a number of private health insurance providers. As the insurers I work with are reviewed from time to time, it's always worth checking current availability before starting therapy.I typically accept BUPA, AXA Health, and AVIVA.Before we begin, I'll need your policy number and insurer's authorisation code or written confirmation that your treatment has been approved.

Question 11

What are extended sessions for?

Accepted Answer

Extended session are 90 minutes and can be helpful when more time is needed for trauma‑focused work, complex presentations or when you prefer a slower pace. In‑person and online appointments are charged at the same rate.

Question 12

Is there parking there? (The Old Surgery)

Accepted Answer

Yes! There are designated free parking spaces right outside the door.

Question 13

Do you work with children?

Accepted Answer

No. I work exclusively with adults aged 18 and over. My training, experience and professional focus are in adult mental health, so I do not provide CBT or talking therapy for children or adolescents.

Question 14

Is your therapy space accessible?

Accepted Answer

The therapy room is wheelchair accessible, with step‑free entry into the premises. However, the toilets on site are not wheelchair accessible. If you have any accessibility needs or adjustments that would help you feel comfortable attending sessions, I’m very happy to discuss these and explore options to support you. My aim is to make therapy as inclusive and accessible as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions