How can I be sure that a psychologist is appropriately qualified and registered?

Practitioner Psychologists in the UK are regulated by the Health Care Professions Council (HCPC), who hold a register of professionals at www.hpc-uk.org. Professionals regulated by the HCPC must meet standards for training, conduct and skills; you can also contact the HCPC if you have any serious unresolved complaints about a health professional. Please check the HCPC register before starting work with any applied psychologist.

The British Psychological Society (BPS) is the professional body for psychologists in the UK. I am an Associate Fellow and a Chartered Clinical Psychologist with the BPS; as well as being on their Register for Applied Psychology Practice Supervisors (RAPPS). You can check if a psychologist is chartered on the BPS website.

Where are you Based?

I am based in Uckfield, East Sussex, and I also offer a clinic in central Tunbridge Wells.

Please contact me to discuss arrangements for home visits and hospital visits.

How do i Book an appointment?

Contact me to request an appointment by:

  • Using the contact form on this website

  • Emailing nicolathepsychologist@gmail.com

  • Calling or texting me on 07517 273515 (please leave a message if you would like me to return your call)

Please note that due to the nature of my work I am often unable to answer telephone calls, and there may be a short delay in my response to enquiries.

When Can you see me?

I offer an appointment-only service; I am usually able to offer an appointment within one-two weeks of enquiries.

People undertaking a course of psychological therapy usually find it most beneficial to book a regular slot each week (this offers consistency, momentum, and routine). However, modern commitments can make it difficult to attend in this way, and it is always possible to think about more flexible arrangements.

How Long is Each Session?

Standard sessions are 1 hour.

How Many therapy sessions will I need?

This will vary depending on the individual, the types of difficulty they are seeking help for, the recommended therapy, and a range of other factors. Psychological therapy commonly requires between 6 and 20 sessions; I am also happy to meet for one-off consultations.

I always meet with people for an initial consultation following which I make a recommendation based on research evidence, best practice guidelines and my own clinical experience. It is common to review every six sessions to check that we are on track.

Who can join the consultation?

It is your choice who you would like in your consultation. Most people prefer to attend by themselves, but many people appreciate the support of somebody else. Please think about what would be most helpful for you.

What are your fees?

2021 fees:

£120 - Individual (Consultation and Therapy)

£140 - Couples (Consultation and Therapy)

£140 - Families (Consultation and Therapy)

Prices on application for assessments, reports, teaching, supervision and consultation

Travel is charged at £60 per half hour or part thereof

I offer a reduced fee scheme (e.g. for people facing financial difficulties and for psychology trainees); please contact me if you would like to discuss

How do I Pay?

I accept work with people who are self-funded, and those who are funded through organisations (such as health insurers or employers).

Individuals:

Fees may be paid by cash or cheque at the end of each session, or by bank transfer within 48 hours.

Organisations:

Fees to be paid by cheque or BACs transfer.

Lateness, Cancellations and Re-arranging appointments

Whilst I make every effort to be flexible, I do have a few standard guidelines:

  • Appointments can be cancelled and re-arranged with a minimum of 48 hours notice

  • Cancellations and missed sessions without 48 hour's notice will incur the usual session charge

  • Late starting appointments may be accommodated, but will generally need to end on time to avoid inconveniencing the following client; they will still be charged at the usual session charge

Do you offer emergency appointments?

Unfortunately I am not able to offer an emergency service. In the first instance, please contact your General Practitioner (GP). Urgent mental health care is also available from the following sources:

  • Out of hours GP

  • 111 (non-emergency urgent care)

  • Accident & Emergency departments

  • Samaritans: 116 123 (freephone number)

Feedback

I always appreciate receiving feedback, as it helps me to keep updating my practice and to meet people's needs as best I can. If you have any concerns or complaints I am keen to hear these as early as possible so that we can work together to resolve things.

I have a question that is not answered here...

I will be very pleased to answer your questions wherever I am able. Please use the contact page to get in touch, or email me at nicolathepsychologist.com