Getting started
What happens in the first session?
The first session is a chance for us to get to know each other. I’ll ask about what’s brought you to therapy, a bit about your background, and what you’re hoping to get from our work together. It’s also a chance for you to ask me anything and get a feel for whether I’m the right fit for you, there’s no obligation to continue if it doesn’t feel right.
Do I need to know exactly what I want to work on before starting?
Not at all. Many clients start with a general sense that something isn’t working, rather than a clear goal. Part of the early sessions is exploring that together.
How many sessions will I need?
This varies a lot from person to person. Some clients come for a handful of sessions to work through something specific, others prefer longer-term, ongoing therapy. We’ll review this together as we go, there’s no fixed programme you’re committed to in advance.
Do you offer a free consultation?
Yes. I offer a free 15-minute telephone consultation so we can talk through what’s bringing you to therapy and you can ask any questions before booking a first full session.
The Gottman Method
What is the Gottman Method?
It’s an evidence-based approach to couples therapy, developed by Drs John and Julie Gottman from decades of research into what helps relationships succeed. It gives us practical, structured tools, alongside our sessions together, for understanding your patterns as a couple and rebuilding trust and connection.
How is it different from general couples counselling?
It’s more structured than open-ended talk therapy. We look at specific, research-identified patterns, such as how conflict typically unfolds between you, or how well-attuned you are to each other’s needs, and use targeted exercises and tools to shift them, alongside space for deeper exploration.
Is the Gottman Method only for couples in crisis?
No. Couples come to this work at all stages, some are managing a specific rupture like infidelity, others simply want to strengthen communication and connection before problems take hold.
Do I need to already know about the Gottman Method to start?
Not at all, I’ll explain how it works and what it involves as we go. You don’t need any prior knowledge to benefit from it.
Practical details
Where do sessions take place?
I offer both in-person sessions at my private home office in Westbury-on-Trym, North Bristol (BS9), with parking available and no access restrictions, and online sessions for clients across the UK.
How long is a session?
Sessions are 50 minutes.
What are your fees?
Individual counselling is £70 per session, relationship counselling is £80 per session, and Family Practitioner sessions are £100 per hour.
What is your cancellation policy?
If a session is cancelled with 48 hours’ notice, I will not charge for the session. If a session is cancelled with fewer than 48 hours’ notice, for any reason, the full fee will be charged.
Is everything I say confidential?
Yes, sessions are confidential. The only exceptions are the standard professional and legal limits to confidentiality, for example where there’s a risk of serious harm, which I would always aim to discuss with you first wherever possible.
About the Family Practitioner service
What does a Family Practitioner do?
I work alongside you and, where relevant, your co-parent, to support the emotional and practical side of separation, communication, co-parenting decisions, and preparing for conversations with children, alongside whichever legal process (mediation, solicitor negotiation, or court) you’re using.
Do you write reports for court?
No. I don’t prepare written reports or recommendations for court. My role is supportive, working alongside your legal process, not part of it.
Will you meet with my children?
No, I work with adults only in this role. I’m not qualified to work directly with children, but I can help you think through how to talk to them and support them through the transition.
Do I need to already be in mediation or a legal process to use this service?
No. Some clients come to me early on, before starting mediation or legal proceedings, simply to prepare. Others use this alongside an ongoing process.
Can my ex-partner and I attend sessions together?
Yes, sessions can be individual or joint, depending on what’s most useful for your situation at each stage.
Still have a question?
You’re welcome to call or text 07729 980125, or email info@michellegaletherapy.co.uk, or book a free 15-minute consultation to talk it through.