Marta Bannister

Therapy with Marta

Starting therapy can be nerve wracking, whether this is the first time you're trying it, or whether you've experienced it before.

Here is what you can expect from therapy sessions with me:

• I welcome you just as you are - You are unique. Whatever you choose to talk about, that's okay. Would you prefer to doodle or sing? That's all okay. Do you want listen to your favourite song to help you start? Great! Let's do it. Do you just want to sit in silence for a bit? That's okay too, its your choice how we work together.

• Don't stress about swear words - You are welcome to express yourself with the words that work best for you. I'm not bothered by swear words so if they help you to describe how you feel or share your experiences, go for it.

• All feelings are okay - You might not be sure whether certain feelings or emotions will be accepted, if they are said out loud. You might have experience of feeling judged or being punished for feeling certain way. In counselling sessions with me you can express all emotions and feelings you experience; yes, all of them. Equally, if feelings and emotions aren't something you are used to expressing or identifying, we can explore it together. You are not expected to be fully versed with every emotion, but I invite you to join me in the exploration.

• To cry or not to cry? - It is one of those wonderings - Am I expected to cry? How much crying is acceptable? Am I allowed to not cry? My answer to this is: you do what feels right for you. I've experienced sessions with loads of tears and ones that were completely tearless. And if you want to cry but feel uncomfortable, ashamed, embarrassed, we can explore it too.

• Honesty with compassion, not judgement - One of the things I believe are important in therapy is being honest and real. Because if I'm not real, how can I expect you to trust me to be yourself? I am not an expert and will never pretend to be because this doesn't serve your healing. I can assure you, though, that I will be walking by your side in whatever direction you choose to go. And while I do not advise on what you "should" do, we can explore the meaning of your experiences and, supported, you can find your best way forward.

• Adapting to your needs - These sessions are yours and as such I aim to adapt to what you might need to feel safe and comfortable. Do you want to use fidget toys? Or perhaps you need your lighting adjusted? Do you prefer to have a recap of the last session at the start of the next one? Are there any items that bring you comfort that you would like to have with you? Or any stimming behaviours you find comforting? Let me know and let's talk about it.