Starting Therapy at Glosna: What to Expect

 

Whether you're new to therapy or returning after time away, it’s natural to have questions. This page answers the most common ones and outlines what you can expect as you begin your journey with us. We want you to feel informed, supported, and safe every step of the way.

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Is therapy a passive process?

No—it’s a team effort.

Therapy works best when you’re actively involved. That means showing up as honestly as you can, sharing what you’re feeling, and being open to new ways of thinking or responding. At Glosna, we provide a safe space where you can explore challenges at your own pace. You’ll get the most from therapy by giving feedback, asking questions, and letting your therapist know how it’s feeling for you.

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How is my therapist chosen?

We match you with a therapist based on your presenting needs, but it’s always your choice whether that match feels right. If, for any reason, you don’t feel safe or understood, we will offer you the opportunity to work with someone else. Just let us know—our priority is that you feel comfortable and well-supported. All our therapists are fully accredited (or working towards accreditation) with recognised governing bodies like IACP, IAHIP, ICP, or APCP.

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How often are sessions and how long do they last?

Sessions typically last 50–60 minutes and take place weekly at a consistent time and day. This regularity helps build the safety and structure essential to therapy. If your schedule makes weekly appointments difficult (e.g., shift work), we’ll do our best to find a rhythm that works for you. Over time, you and your therapist may agree to reduce the frequency if appropriate.

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Is therapy confidential?

Yes, confidentiality is a cornerstone of therapy. What you share in sessions stays private—unless there is a legal or safety concern. A therapist is required to break confidentiality only in rare cases, including:

• If there is a risk of serious harm to yourself or someone else

• If there is suspected abuse or neglect of a child, dependent adult, or elder

• If you are unable to care for yourself safely

If information needs to be shared with another professional (e.g., GP or solicitor), this will only happen with your written consent.

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How long will therapy take?

There’s no single answer. The length of therapy depends on your goals and how the process unfolds. We recommend starting with a minimum of 6 sessions to establish a relationship with your therapist. From there, you’ll have regular reviews together to reflect on how things are going, what’s changing, and what direction feels right moving forward.

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How do I give feedback about therapy?

We encourage you to give feedback during sessions—what’s helpful, what’s not, and how the process feels for you. Your therapist will regularly invite your input and make space for honest conversations. Therapy is a dynamic, collaborative process, and your voice matters.

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Are therapists supervised?

Yes. All our therapists engage in professional supervision. This means they regularly consult with a qualified supervisor to reflect on their work and ensure they’re offering the highest quality support. Supervision is fully confidential—no identifying details are ever shared.

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What happens in the first session?

Your first session is about getting to know each other. Your therapist will ask what brings you to therapy, explore your challenges and goals, and gather some background information. You might talk about your personal history, current circumstances, relationships, or emotional health. It’s also your chance to see if your therapist feels like a good fit—ask questions, share any worries, and take your time. You don’t need to tell your full story straight away.

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How do I pay for sessions?

Your therapist will let you know their fee and preferred payment method. Payment is made directly to the therapist, either at the start or end of each session. (Please note: card payments may not be available.)

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What if I need to cancel or miss a session?

Life happens. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please give your therapist as much notice as possible. They’ll explain their specific cancellation policy during your first session. Missed appointments without notice are usually charged at the full fee.

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Can I contact my therapist between sessions?

Your therapist will explain how to contact them if needed and set appropriate boundaries around communication. Therapy is most effective when it happens within the session space, but we understand that life doesn’t always fit into neat boxes. If there’s ever an emergency, you and your therapist will agree on a safe way to manage that.

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What about therapy for under 18s?

If your child is attending therapy, you’ll be asked to sign a consent form. If you'd like to speak with your child’s therapist, this will be arranged as a separate face-to-face appointment. We do not conduct these conversations by phone to ensure the space stays focused and therapeutic.

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How does therapy end?

When it’s time to conclude therapy, you and your therapist will plan “closing sessions” together. This gives you a chance to reflect on your progress, process the ending, and move forward with clarity and confidence. Every ending is as important as the beginning—and we aim to make it meaningful.