Frequently Asked Questions

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What if I don’t know what to say when therapy starts?

 

That’s completely normal. Many of my clients arrive saying "I don’t even know where to start". You don’t need to have everything figured out before we begin. Part of therapy is helping you find the words, make sense of what you’re feeling, and identify what’s most important to explore. I’ll guide the process, and we’ll work at your pace.

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Why do I feel constantly on edge even when nothing specific is wrong?

 

This is incredibly common in professionals experiencing chronic stress or burnout. Your nervous system has been in overdrive for so long that it struggles to switch off — even when there’s no immediate threat. This constant being on edge feeling is your body’s way of staying prepared, but it’s exhausting. Through therapy, we work on helping your nervous system recognise safety again, building regulation practices, and addressing the deeper patterns keeping you stuck in high alert.

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Is it normal to still feel broken years after something difficult happened?

 

Yes — and you’re not broken. Unresolved stress, trauma, or difficult experiences can stay with you for years if they haven’t been properly processed. Time alone doesn’t heal everything; sometimes, healing requires space to explore what happened, understand its impact, and develop new ways of relating to yourself. That’s exactly what therapy offers.

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What if I’m scared of being judged for what I say?

 

Our sessions are a judgment-free space. I’ve heard it all — the shame, the guilt, the fear, the messy parts people hide from everyone else. Nothing you share will shock me or make me think less of you. Therapy only works when you feel safe enough to be honest, and I work hard to create that safety from the very first session.

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Can therapy help if I feel like I should be coping but I’m not?

 

Absolutely. That feeling of "I should be coping" is one of the most common things I hear from high-achieving professionals. Just because you look fine on the outside doesn’t mean you have to feel fine on the inside. Therapy helps you understand why you’re struggling, release the pressure of constant coping, and build genuine resilience — not just survival mode.

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What if I’ve tried therapy before and it didn’t help?

 

Not all therapy is the same, and not all therapists are the right fit. My approach is direct, practical, and structured — combining emotional depth with actionable strategies. Many of my clients have tried therapy before and found it too vague or slow-moving. If that was your experience, this might be exactly what you need. Let’s have a conversation about what didn’t work before, and I’ll tell you honestly if I think I can help.

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What if nothing changes and I waste my time and money?

 

Change takes commitment, but it doesn’t take forever. My approach is goal-oriented and structured — we track progress, adjust what isn’t working, and focus on practical shifts you can feel in your daily life. Most clients notice changes within the first few sessions, whether that’s feeling more grounded, sleeping better, or gaining new insight into their patterns. If something isn’t working, we talk about it openly and adapt.

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Why can’t I stop overthinking at night?

 

Overthinking at night is often a sign that your nervous system hasn’t had a chance to properly process the day. Your mind is trying to solve problems, anticipate threats, or replay scenarios — because it doesn’t feel safe enough to rest. In therapy, we work on nervous system regulation, challenging unhelpful thought patterns, and creating evening routines that actually help you wind down. This isn’t about positive thinking — it’s about retraining your brain and body to recognize rest as safe.

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Do I have to share everything straight away?

 

Not at all. We go at your pace. Some people feel ready to dive into difficult topics immediately; others need time to build trust first. I never push you to share more than you’re comfortable with. Therapy is most effective when you feel in control of the process — not rushed or pressured.

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Can therapy work if I don’t even know what’s wrong?

 

Yes. Many people start therapy with a vague sense that something isn’t right, but they can’t pinpoint exactly what. Part of our work together is helping you identify what’s actually going on beneath the surface — whether that’s burnout, unresolved stress, perfectionism, or something deeper. Clarity often emerges through the process itself.

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What’s the difference between psychotherapy, counselling, and coaching?

 

Psychotherapy and counselling focus on exploring emotions, patterns, and past experiences to create lasting change. Coaching is more future-focused and goal-oriented, supporting resilience, clarity, and performance. The beauty of my approach is that you don’t have to choose — I integrate both, so you get emotional depth and practical direction.

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Do you work online or in person?

 

I work exclusively online, which makes therapy accessible across the entire UK. Sessions are 60 minutes long and conducted via secure video calls. Many professionals prefer online therapy because it fits demanding schedules, eliminates commute time, and allows you to access support from the comfort of your own space.

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How long should I commit to therapy or coaching?

 

It depends on your goals. Some clients choose short-term support (6-12 sessions) to address a specific challenge like managing burnout or navigating a transition. Others commit to longer-term therapy (3-12+ months) to explore deeper patterns, heal trauma, or transform their relationship with themselves. We’ll review what feels right for you as we go, and you’re never locked into anything.

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What are the costs of therapy and coaching?

 

Sessions are £80 per 60 minutes for my integrated psychotherapy and coaching approach.

EMDR session are £95 per 60 minute sessions.

 

This reflects my dual qualifications, 25 years of corporate experience in senior roles, and a specialized focus on professionals experiencing burnout, stress, imposter syndrome, and leadership challenges.

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Unlike therapy-only practitioners, you receive both emotional depth and practical coaching strategies in every session — with structured plans, psychoeducation, and tools you can apply immediately.

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Do you offer packages or multiple-session discounts?

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Most clients prefer the flexibility of booking sessions individually. However, if you're looking to commit to deeper work, I'm happy to discuss options that might include:

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• 6-session foundation packages for focused, short-term support

• 12-session transformation packages for comprehensive change​

 

These aren't required — you're welcome to book session by session. We can discuss what works best for you during your free consultation.

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Can I use health insurance to cover sessions?

 

Yes, I'm recognised by several major insurance providers including Vitality, AXA, Aviva, and WPA.

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Coverage varies by policy, so I recommend contacting your provider before booking to confirm your eligibility and understand any excess fees or session limits.

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If you're self-funding, the investment is £80 per session for psychotherapy and coaching and £95 for EMDR.  All sessions are online and last 60 minutes.

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Can I book a free consultation before committing?

 

Absolutely. I offer a free 20-minute consultation so we can talk about what you’re experiencing and explore whether we’re the right fit to work together. The therapeutic relationship is everything, and this gives us both a chance to see if my approach feels right for you. There’s no pressure, no commitment — just an honest conversation.

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Do I need to be in crisis to start therapy?

 

No. Many high achievers seek therapy when they feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected — not in crisis, but not thriving either. Therapy can provide space to pause, reflect, and prioritize your wellbeing before burnout takes hold. You don’t have to wait until things fall apart to ask for support.

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Ready to Get Started?

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If you have more questions, or you’re ready to explore how EMDR, therapy or coaching can support you, book a free consultation.

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Email: cathy@cathywaterhouse.co.uk

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