Below are some of the questions people most often ask before getting in touch with us or one of our therapists. If something isn’t covered here, please feel welcome to ask any of our therapists directly, or to use the contact form.

Getting started

How do I find the right therapist at A Quiet Room?

Our Therapists page lists every practitioner here, with their approach, areas of focus, and contact details. Most people read a few profiles and reach out to one or two therapists directly to ask any questions or arrange an initial conversation. There’s no central booking. Each therapist manages their own diary, so you’ll be in touch with them from the start.

What happens in the first session?

This varies between therapists, but most use the first meeting to understand what’s brought you, talk about how they work, and let you get a feel for them. There’s no commitment to continue after the first session. It’s a chance for both of you to see if it feels like a good fit.

What’s the difference between counselling, psychotherapy, and clinical psychology?

In broad terms, counselling tends to focus on a specific issue or period of life and can be shorter term. Psychotherapy explores patterns and relationships in greater depth and is usually longer. Clinical psychology applies psychological assessment and evidence-based interventions, often for more complex difficulties. There’s significant overlap, and the right fit usually depends more on the therapist as a person than the label. If you’re unsure, getting in touch with two or three therapists is a reasonable way to find your way.

Practical questions

How much does therapy cost?

Fees vary between therapists at A Quiet Room. Each therapist sets their own rate and discusses it with you when you first make contact. Some therapists offer lower-fee or concessionary places, so ask directly when you enquire.

How long is a session?

Most sessions are 50 minutes, sometimes called the “therapy hour”. Some therapists offer longer sessions or different formats, so check the individual profile or ask when you enquire.

How often will I see my therapist?

Weekly is the most common rhythm, particularly at the start. Some people move to fortnightly later, and some forms of therapy work to a different pattern. Your therapist will discuss what’s likely to work for you.

How many sessions will I need?

There’s no fixed answer. It depends on what brought you, what you’re hoping to work towards, and the type of therapy. Some people find a handful of sessions enough, others work over a longer period. Your therapist will discuss this with you as you go.

Where is A Quiet Room, and how do I get there?

We’re at 12d and 12g Timber Bush in Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6QH, a quiet side street just off Bernhard Street. There’s on-street parking nearby, and the practice is a short walk from tram and bus stops on Constitution Street and Leith Walk.

Is the practice accessible?

For current details on access to each part of the building, please see our Accessibility Statement, or contact us if there’s anything specific you’d like to ask before booking.

How sessions work

Do you offer online therapy?

Some of our therapists work online, some in person, and some offer both. Each therapist’s profile indicates the formats they offer.

What if I don’t feel I click with my therapist?

It happens, and it’s perfectly fine. The fit between you and your therapist matters a great deal, often more than the particular modality. Tell them honestly, or contact a different therapist at the practice. We’re not offended by this. Finding the right person is the most important thing.

Is what I say to my therapist confidential?

Yes. All our therapists work to the ethical frameworks of their professional bodies, such as BACP, BPS, HCPC, or COSCA, which set strict standards on confidentiality. There are very limited circumstances in which confidentiality might be broken, typically when there is a serious risk of harm, and your therapist will explain these to you at the start.

Will my GP or anyone else be told that I’m seeing a therapist?

No. Therapy at A Quiet Room is private. We don’t notify your GP or anyone else, and we don’t keep medical records that your GP can access. If at some point you decide you’d like your GP to know, for example to support a referral elsewhere, your therapist can discuss that with you.

If you’re in crisis

What should I do if I’m in crisis or in immediate need of help?

Therapy at A Quiet Room is not a crisis service. If you are in immediate danger, or having thoughts of harming yourself, please contact NHS 24 on 111 or, in an emergency, 999. The Samaritans are available 24 hours a day on 116 123. Once the immediate situation has passed, therapy may be a valuable next step.