Frequently asked questions

No. Many people come to us knowing only that something feels difficult and they would like to understand it or change it. You do not need a diagnosis or to know which approach might suit you. Working that out together is part of what we do.

You can read about our approach if you are curious, but there is no need to choose anything in advance.

You are welcome to read about each of our Clinical Psychologists and let us know if you would like to work with someone in particular. If you are not sure, that is completely fine. On the introductory call we will listen to what you are looking for and suggest who may be best placed to help.

The introductory call is a relaxed 15-minute conversation at a time that suits you. It is a chance to tell us briefly what is going on, ask any questions and see whether Elementa feels like the right fit. You do not need to prepare anything.

There is no charge for the call and no obligation to continue afterwards.

The initial assessment is a 50-minute session with one of our Clinical Psychologists. It explores what has brought you to therapy, relevant experiences, current difficulties and what you would like to be different.

Afterwards, you will receive a short written summary and a proposed plan, so you can decide how you would like to continue. See how it works for more detail.

No. You can contact us directly. If it would be helpful, and with your agreement, we can keep your GP informed about your care.

The 15-minute introductory call is free. The initial assessment is £120 for 50 minutes, and ongoing therapy sessions are £120 for 50 minutes. You can find full details on our how it works and fees page.

The initial assessment and ongoing therapy sessions are each 50 minutes.

Most people start with weekly or fortnightly sessions, but this is something you will agree with your psychologist based on what you need and what is practical for you. The frequency can change as therapy progresses.

It varies from person to person. Some people find a small number of focused sessions helpful, while others benefit from longer-term work. After your assessment, your psychologist will suggest a plan and you will review progress together regularly. You are always free to decide how you would like to continue.

We will share our full cancellation and payment policy with you before your first paid session. If you would like to know more in the meantime, please get in touch.

We are not currently set up with health insurers. If using insurance is important to you, please get in touch and we can talk through your options.

Sessions take place by secure video call. All you need is a private, quiet space and a device with a camera and an internet connection. We will send you a link before each session.

Many people find online therapy more comfortable and easier to fit around their lives, without the need to travel. Research suggests that, for many difficulties, online therapy can be as helpful as meeting in person.

Yes. What you discuss in therapy is kept confidential. There are a small number of situations where we may need to share information, for example if we are seriously concerned about your safety or the safety of someone else, or if we are required to by law. Wherever possible, we would talk to you first.

Your psychologist will explain confidentiality fully at the start of your work together, and you can read more in our privacy notice.

Yes. Because therapy is delivered online, we work with adults across the UK. If you are based elsewhere, please get in touch and we can let you know whether we are able to help.

We work with adults aged 18 and over in individual therapy. We do not currently offer therapy for children or adolescents, couples therapy, or family therapy as a standalone service.

We do offer parent coaching for adults, and individual therapy can include work on relationships and family patterns.

No. Our team are Clinical Psychologists, not psychiatrists, so we do not prescribe medication. If you are taking medication or think it might help, we would encourage you to speak to your GP. We are happy to work alongside other professionals involved in your care.

We are not a crisis or emergency service. We also do not provide specialist services for psychosis or dementia, or care for difficulties that need a wider multidisciplinary team to be delivered safely.

If we do not think we are the right service for you, we will explain why and try to point you towards support that may be more suitable.

Elementa is not an emergency service and we cannot respond to urgent needs. If you need help now:

• If you are in immediate danger or your life is at risk, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.
• Call NHS 111 and select the mental health option for urgent support.
• Call Samaritans free on 116 123, any time of day or night.
• Text SHOUT to 85258 for free, confidential text support, 24/7.

You can also contact your GP for an urgent appointment.