Addiction Therapist London

The first session is about understanding your situation — what brings you to therapy, your history with substances or behaviours, and what you hope to achieve. There's no pressure to share everything at once. We'll discuss how I work, answer your questions, and begin to develop a picture of what's driving the addiction. It's also an opportunity for you to see if you feel comfortable working with me — the therapeutic relationship is one of the most important factors in successful therapy.

There's no fixed timeline — it depends on the complexity of what you're working with. Some clients see meaningful change in 8–12 sessions; others, particularly those addressing deep-rooted developmental trauma alongside addiction, may work with me for longer. We'll regularly review progress together. What matters is that you're moving toward a life that feels genuinely better, not just ticking a box.

No. Many people come to therapy while still using substances or engaging in compulsive behaviours. The only requirement is that you attend sessions sober and not under the influence. If abstinence is your goal, we'll work toward it together. If you're exploring moderation or harm reduction, we can work with that too.

Yes. I am registered with Aviva, AXA Health, WPA, Allianz, and Healix. Most policies cover a set number of sessions. I recommend contacting your insurer before our first session to confirm your coverage. I can provide invoices and paperwork to support your claims.

Yes, completely. Everything you share in therapy is confidential within the bounds of professional ethics and UK law. I adhere to the BACP Ethical Framework. The only exceptions to confidentiality are if there is a serious risk of harm to yourself or others, or if required by law — and I would always discuss this with you first where possible.