Dr Anita Chakraborty

General

How do I arrange an initial consultation?
How long will I have to wait for an appointment?
Are sessions confidential? Would you tell my GP?
How are you able to support people who are struggling with issues around diversity and identity?

Types of therapist

What is the difference between a psychologist and a counsellor/therapist?
What is the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?
Why do therapists’ fees vary so much?
Who are you registered with?

General

How do I arrange an initial consultation?

Please get in touch to arrange a free initial 15 minute phone consultation.

How long will I have to wait for an appointment?

Sessions can typically start within a week.

Are sessions confidential? Would you tell my GP?

Sessions are confidential. This means that anything you say in therapy will not be shared with anyone else, including your GP, without your permission. There are a few exceptions to this rule, such as if you are a danger to yourself or others, or if you are discussing child abuse or neglect. In these cases, I may be required to break confidentiality but I would endeavour to discuss this with you first.

How are you able to support people who are struggling with issues around diversity and identity?

I have lived experience growing up in the UK as a member of an ethnic minority group, deep experience as a researcher including my doctoral thesis, and clinical experience dealing with the fallout of discrimination. As such, I have a unique insight and capacity to help those who have experienced discrimination or issues around identity.

Types of therapist

What is the difference between a psychologist and a counsellor/therapist?

Psychologists are professionals trained to the highest level. As doctors of Psychology, they have spent a minimum of 6 to 9 years studying a variety of therapies. They also have experience working with people of all ages, from adults to children to older adults. In addition, psychologists have research training and experience in conducting their own research which allows them to assess the effectiveness of the therapies they provide. This ensures that they can provide you with the best possible care. Counsellors and therapists often work in similar areas, but their training may not be as extensive as that of psychologists. Additionally, counsellors/therapists may only specialise in one type of therapy. If you are looking for a mental health professional with a wide range of experience and training, a psychologist is a good option.

What is the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who after their general training in medicine decide to specialise in mental health. This specialism requires them to study mental health for between 2-3 years. Psychiatrists are able to prescribe medication. Psychologists do not prescribe medication. They spend their whole training studying psychology and mental health and this takes a minimum of 6 years. Their training is mostly focused on the provision of talking therapies.

Why do therapists’ fees vary so much?

Therapists charge different fees because of their education, training, experience, and expertise. Those who charge higher fees often do so because they have more training and experience, which allows them to provide a more tailored treatment. Psychologists have a minimum of 6 years of training in psychology and mental health. They also have the opportunity to develop broad and high-quality experience through working in the NHS. In addition, psychologists continue to develop their skills throughout their careers as required by their professional bodies. This extensive training and experience ensures that psychologists have the expertise, knowledge, skills, and professional ethics to provide you with a high level of service. I keep my fees as low as I possibly can as it’s important to me to keep my sessions accessible for all of my clients.

Who are you registered with?

I am registered as a Chartered Psychologist with the British Psychological Society.

Types of therapy

What is an integrative practitioner?

Integrative practitioners in psychology are mental health professionals who use a variety of different therapeutic approaches to treat their clients. They believe that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy, and that the best approach is the one that is tailored to the individual needs of the client. They are trained in a variety of different therapeutic techniques, which allows them to be flexible and adaptable in their treatment approach. Some of the benefits of working with an integrative practitioner include: they can tailor their treatment to your specific needs, they are trained in a variety of different therapeutic techniques, they can see the big picture and consider all of the different factors that may be contributing to your mental health problems, and they can provide you with a holistic treatment plan that addresses your physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.

What is psychodynamic therapy?

Psychodynamic psychotherapy is a type of therapy that helps people understand their emotions and relationships. It focuses on exploring the full range of emotions, including those that people may not be aware of. The therapist helps the client to recognize and express their feelings, and to understand how their past experiences and relationships have shaped their current behaviour. Psychodynamic psychotherapy is also known as insight-oriented therapy because it helps people to gain insight into their own behaviour. By understanding the underlying causes of their problems, people can begin to make changes in their lives.

What is cognitive behavioural therapy?

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on changing the way you think and behave. It is based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are all interconnected. When we have negative thoughts, it can lead to negative feelings and behaviours. CBT helps you to identify and challenge your negative thoughts, and to develop more helpful and realistic ways of thinking. CBT is a short-term, goal-oriented therapy that is effective in treating a variety of mental health problems, including anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. It is also a popular therapy for people who are struggling with issues such as low self-esteem, relationship problems, and career decisions. CBT is a versatile and effective therapy that can be helpful for a variety of mental health problems.

What is person-centred therapy?

Person-centred therapy is a type of psychotherapy that is based on the idea that people have an inherent tendency to move towards growth and self-actualization. The therapist in person-centred therapy does not offer advice or interpretations, but instead focuses on providing the client with unconditional positive regard, empathy, and congruence. Person-centred therapy is a non-directive therapy, which means that the client is in control of the therapy process. Person-centred therapy has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of mental health problems, including anxiety, depression, and personality disorders. It is a non-judgmental and supportive environment, where the therapist helps you to explore your own thoughts, feelings, and experiences. It can help you to develop a greater sense of self-awareness and self-acceptance and improve your relationships with others. It is a gentle and supportive therapy that can help you to grow and heal.

What is mindfulness-based therapy?

Mindfulness-based therapy (MBT) is a type of psychotherapy that integrates mindfulness techniques into traditional talk therapy. It is based on the idea that mindfulness can help people to become more aware of their thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations, and to respond to them in a more mindful way. MBT has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of mental health problems, including anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. It is also a popular therapy for people who are struggling with issues such as stress, pain, and addiction. MBT is a gentle and effective therapy that can help people to learn how to live more mindfully and compassionately.