Frequently asked questions

How much does each session cost?

Prices vary depending on the type of session. Information on our current pricing can be found on our fees page.

How do I pay?

Your initial consultation can be paid by credit/debit card when you book through our diary. Your subsequent sessions can be paid using credit/debit card. Payments will show up on your statement as Leeds A C.

How long does each session last for?

Our one-to-one sessions last for one hour. Our supervision sessions last for 90 minutes.

How long does a course of treatment usually take?

An initial course of treatment usually takes between 12 and 24 sessions. At this point, we would typically take a break for the client to practice managing their symptoms on their own using some of the strategies we’ve agreed. Clients may then return at a later stage for further sessions. This can be to revisit the work already done or to address other issues.

Will my anxiety be cured after one course of treatment?

Probably not. The underlying sensitivity to anxiety is likely to remain in the long term. While an initial course of treatment can give a real self-esteem boost by showing that there are steps you can take to assert some control over your anxiety symptoms, becoming confident at managing your anxiety in the long term can require more persistent practice in a supportive relationship.

Where will my appointments take place?

Our sessions take place at a discreet location without a Leeds Anxiety Clinic logo, located on Queen Street, Leeds, LS1 2TW. See our location page for more details.

How will I know my therapist is qualified?

In order to work with the Leeds Anxiety Clinic, a therapist must have a BACP approved diploma in counselling, a relevant degree from a UK university and be experienced working in the integrative/relational model of therapy. Your therapist will be registered with the BACP, and their registration number will be on their business card. You can check their register on their website.

What happens during the sessions?

Throughout your treatment, the sessions are a way for us to talk about how your anxiety manifests itself and develop the relationship with your therapist. We use that relationship to motivate you to engage in learning about your anxiety and making changes to improve your symptoms. Most of the work actually happens in between the sessions as you reflect on and apply the things you have talked about and planned with your therapist.

How does the money-back guarantee work for my consultation?

We’re sure you’ll feel supported and confident in your therapist. But if having attended your initial consultation, you don’t feel that our support is what you need to manage your anxiety then we will refund your consultation fee in full. Simply call or email us to let us know you don’t wish to continue and you’d like to claim a refund. We’ll refund your payment within 7 days via the method you initially used.

How do I book a consultation?

What if I don’t get on with my therapist?

The integrative-relational model of psychotherapy uses your experience with the therapist to give clues to how you’re relating to the world at large. It can be useful to use some of the frustrations you have with your therapist to understand some of this. The quality of the relationship you have with your therapist will determine how comfortable you are discussing these issues with them. This can lead to highly successful outcomes for patients.

However, if you do not have the relationship with your therapist to be able to explore these issues usefully, then it may be that the therapist is not right for you. This situation is perfectly normal and happens occasionally. In that case, we may be able to switch you to another therapist or recommend a referral elsewhere.

Can I select the age/race/gender/LGBTQ/disability identification of my therapist?

No. We believe in diversity and inclusivity. All of our therapists are fully qualified professionals who are experts in anxiety, regardless of what other characteristics they may identify with. We believe that talent and experience determine somebody’s ability to be a great anxiety therapist. We hope you respect that.

Do I need a professional therapist? Can I ignore it or read self-help books?

Do you need a professional therapist? Only you can make that decision. There are some useful insights to be gained from self-help literature. The thing we like about even the most basic self-help books is that they encourage self-compassion. And there can never be enough of that. And there are some very straightforward, practical guides to help you understand your condition.

If you’re motivated to learn about the causes of and treatments for anxiety and then you have the discipline to repeatedly apply that learning in your everyday life then you will see significant improvement in your symptoms. Some people get there on their own and don’t need us.

However, a good relationship with a professional therapist can be a great motivator to go through the discomfort of learning about, coming to terms with and making a plan to deal with your anxiety. The experience and compassion that relationship adds can significantly reduce the time that takes and improve the results you see.

Do I need to prepare anything or bring anything to my first session?

No.

Will everything I say be confidential?

Almost. The only time we would look to break confidentiality is if we felt you were at risk of harming yourself or another person. For further information, please see our confidentiality policy.

Do I need a referral from my GP?

No. But we do recommend you keep your GP informed about your mental health. They are your primary point of contact with the NHS. Your GP can make referrals to other agencies, help you obtain a diagnosis and access other treatment options. But it is not necessary to have a referral from your GP to access our service.

Do you work with under 18s?

No. We are an adult therapy service and do not work with anybody under the age of 18.