Question 1

How many sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

Psychotherapy is a highly individual process. While some clients find significant relief from specific symptoms through a short-term EMDR protocol (typically 8-12 sessions), others choose to engage in long-term psychodynamic work to explore deeper relational patterns. We will discuss a projected timeline during your initial consultation.

Question 2

Is my information kept confidential?

Accepted Answer

Discretion is the cornerstone of my practice. All sessions are strictly confidential, adhering to the BACP Ethical Framework and GDPR standards. The only exceptions involve legal requirements or immediate safety concerns, which are discussed transparently during our first meeting.

Question 3

What is the difference between your approach and standard 'talk therapy'?

Accepted Answer

Standard counselling often focuses on managing the present. My integrative approach combines Psychodynamic inquiry, to understand the root cause of patterns, with EMDR, which actively reprocesses how the brain stores traumatic or stressful memories. This means we aren't just discussing the past; we are changing its neurological impact on your present.

Question 4

Do you offer online sessions?

Accepted Answer

While many clients prefer the focused environment of the South Kensington mews, I do offer secure, encrypted video sessions for those who travel for work or live outside of London. Both EMDR and Psychodynamic work can be conducted effectively in a remote format.

Question 5

Is there parking available at the practice?

Accepted Answer

As the practice is located in a traditional South Kensington mews, there is no on-site parking for clients. However, there is 'Pay-by-Phone' street parking available on the surrounding roads. Additionally, several secure public car parks are within a 5-10 minute walk. Given the central location, many clients find arriving via South Kensington station (District, Circle, and Piccadilly lines) to be the most convenient option.

Question 6

What happens if I am late for my appointment?

Accepted Answer

Your session time is reserved exclusively for you. To ensure the clinical integrity of the work and to respect the appointments of following clients, sessions will conclude at the scheduled time regardless of your arrival. If you are running late, a brief text or email is appreciated so Amelia knows you are safe and on your way.

Question 7

What is the cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

To maintain the consistency of our work together, a 48-hour cancellation policy applies. Because your weekly hour is a dedicated space curated specifically for your treatment, sessions cancelled with less than 48 hours' notice, or missed without contact, will be charged at the full rate. This policy ensures that the practice remains sustainable and that the 'frame' of our therapeutic relationship is held with mutual respect.

Question 8

What do your qualifications and accreditations mean for my care?

Accepted Answer

Amelia’s academic and clinical foundations were built at some of the UK’s leading institutions for psychological study. She holds a PhD in Clinical Psychology from University College London (UCL), where her research focused on the long-term neurological impacts of relational trauma. Her specialist Psychodynamic training was completed at The Tavistock Clinic, and her EMDR accreditation was granted by EMDR Europe following extensive supervised practice. This combination of 'Red Brick' academic rigour and world-renowned clinical training allows her to offer a uniquely sophisticated level of care.

Education & Clinical Training

PhD in Clinical Psychology | University College London (UCL)
MA in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy | The Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust
Accredited EMDR Practitioner | EMDR Association UK & Europe
BSc (Hons) Psychology | University of Edinburgh

Dr Amelia Bracken

Frequently Asked Questions