Frequently Asked Questions – Therapy with Sarah Handley

Q: Who do you work with?

A: I work with adults (18+) from all walks of life. Whether you’re an overthinker, a people- pleaser, or someone who just wants to offload their week, you’re welcome here.

Q: How do I know if therapy is right for me?

A: Therapy can help with a wide range of issues, from managing anxiety to improving self- esteem. If you’re unsure, I offer an initial chat to discuss your needs.

Q: How long are the sessions?

A: Sessions last 50 minutes – long enough to get into the good stuff, short enough to avoid therapy fatigue.

Q: What is integrative therapy?

A: Integrative therapy is like having a flexible toolkit for mental health. It means I combine different therapeutic approaches, depending on what works best for you.

Q: What is person-centred therapy?

A: Person-centred therapy is all about you. It’s built on the idea that you’re the expert in your own life, and my role is to support you with empathy, understanding, and zero judgment. Think of me as a friendly guide while you take the driver’s seat – no unsolicited directions, no shortcuts, just genuine support.

Q: What can I talk about in therapy?

A: Anything! From deep existential musings about the meaning of life to wondering why the cat won’t look you in the eye anymore – no topic is too big or small. This is your space, and I’m here to listen.

Q: Will you give me advice?

A: Not exactly. Therapy isn’t about me telling you what to do. Instead, I’ll help you explore your thoughts, feelings, and options so you can find your own path forward.

Q: What do I need for an online session?

A: A quiet, private space, a reliable internet connection, and a device with a camera and microphone.

Q: Is online therapy effective?

A: Absolutely! Online therapy is like Netflix – convenient, flexible, and you don’t have to leave your sofa. Plus, no awkward small talk with receptionists.

Q: How many sessions will I need?

A: It depends! Some people find a few sessions helpful, while others prefer ongoing support. We’ll work together to figure out what feels right for you – no pressure and no long-term contracts.

Q: What if I don’t know what to say?

A: That’s fine! There’s no ‘right way’ to do therapy. We can sit in silence, explore whatever’s on your mind, or start with, “So, how’s the weather?” Sometimes the best conversations start small.

Q: What if I don’t want to talk about certain things?

A: That’s perfectly fine. Therapy is your space, and you decide what we discuss. There’s no pressure to share anything you’re not ready to – we’ll work at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

Q: Will you ‘fix’ me?

A: You’re not broken, so there’s nothing to fix. Therapy is about helping you understand yourself better, build resilience, and find your own path forward. Think of me as your co-pilot, not your mechanic.

Q: How do I know if therapy is working?

A: Great question! Therapy progress looks different for everyone. You might notice feeling lighter, gaining new insights, or handling challenges differently. Sometimes, growth is subtle – like realizing you’re kinder to yourself or handling stress with a little more ease.