Counselling & Psychotherapy Information

Who is it for?

Our practitioners work mostly with individuals, but we also work with couples and occasionally with families.

What kind of issues?

People come with a broad range of issues including:

Counselling or Psychotherapy?

Whilst the terms are often used interchangeably, counselling is generally considered  shorter term and tends to focus on specific issues or events that you currently find difficult.

Psychotherapy  generally refers to mid to longer term therapy, and seeks to help individuals understand themselves more deeply.  Psychotherapy attends to the individual’s upbringing, to their early adversities and traumas and explores their current and past relationships.  

It assists in helping the individual to view their patterns of behavior in a wider or deeper context and, should they wish to,  support them make different choices and changes to their lives. You and your therapist will discuss what is appropriate for you.

What kind of Counselling/ Psychotherapy will be suitable for me?

Our practitioners all come from slightly different theoretical orientations, which you can read about on this site. Research however indicates that rather than any particular modality, the most important factor in successful therapy is the relationship between therapist and client. The Assessment  Service can assist with all  these questions.

How do I choose a Counsellor/ Psychotherapist?

We advise making an appointment with the Assessment Service which provides with an overview of the best therapist for each individual’s needs. There is also information about each practitioner on the website, to help you decide, and each therapist is happy to meet you for an initial consultation to explore whether to work together. If, for whatever reason, you decide not to proceed, the therapist may offer alternative suggestions.

How many sessions are required?

This depends on the issues and your practitioner will be happy to discuss this. At the outset, you should expect to attend for a minimum of six sessions. Within a couple of sessions it should become clearer how long your counselling or  psychotherapy process may take.  The Assessment Service can also give a clear idea of the likely duration of your therapy.  At all times however a client can terminate their therapy at any point. Normally, you will arrange to meet your therapist at the same time each week, though there is usually some flexibility.

Convenience & flexibility

We are open 6 days a week including evenings and we will match you with a therapist who is most suited to your clinical needs as well as  suited to your preferred times for appointments. If your availability is limited, our receptionists can advise which therapists are available at times which suit your diary.

Remote services

At The Whole Works our clients are able to choose which form of support works best for them, whether in-person appointments or remote.

Is it confidential?

Yes, always, though under certain conditions which your therapist can explain at the first meeting.

What does it cost?

You can visit the practitioner’s individual page on this website. Alternatively, get in touch with us for the price list. Most therapy  sessions at The Whole Works fall between £40 and £70, dependent on income.  CBT and EMDR sessions may be more .

Note: In cases where finances are restricting the options for Counselling and Psychotherapy The Whole Works maintains a list of recommended charitable funded centers that can offer reduced rates, depending on client circumstances. The Edinburgh Counselling Agencies List website is here.

Making an appointment

If you'd like to book an appointment or have a question, you can call us on 0131 225 8092, email us on [email protected] or fill out our Contact Form and we'll be happy to help. We look forward to hearing from you.