Pete Tobias Counselling
COUNSELLOR IN LONDON BRIDGE AND ONLINE
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
How long is each session?
Each session is 50 minutes in length. This is what we call the therapy hour.
What happens in the first session?
Our initial session will be an opportunity for us both to meet and to experience what it is like working together. I will cover some important areas such as confidentiality and explain the session setup. We will then focus on what has brought you to seek help at this time. I may ask some questions or check my understanding. There will be an opportunity for you to ask me any questions you may have about therapy and at the end we will discuss how we might go forward.
What should I talk about in the session?
It is important to allow yourself to express any and all of your concerns. In therapy we work with the person as a whole; so we want to address all areas that are affecting you.
What do I do if I don’t know what to say?
It is important to recognise that this is your space to express yourself. However, I will ask questions to help direct you.
What if I don’t remember what we talked about?
If it's helpful, you can bring a pen and paper to the session so you can jot down any relevant points. Alternatively, you can write down your summary of the session immediately after. Many people find that they are able to remember the important themes or details of a session.
What if I cannot make the session?
Life happens and I truly do understand that. However, if you are unable to make the session it is important to let me know 48 hours before. Failure to let me know within that time means that I will have to charge the full fee.
What is EMDR therapy?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is a structured, evidence-based therapy used to help people process and heal from trauma, distressing memories, and other emotionally overwhelming experiences. It involves guided bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements or tapping) to support the brain in safely reprocessing stuck or unresolved memories.
How does EMDR work online?
Online EMDR works very similarly to in-person sessions. We use secure video platforms and tools for bilateral stimulation, and I’ll guide you through each phase of the process. Many people find online EMDR just as effective, and sometimes more comfortable, than working in a physical space.
What kinds of issues can EMDR help with?
EMDR is particularly effective for:
PTSD and Complex PTSD
Childhood or developmental trauma
Anxiety and panic attacks
Grief and loss
Dissociation and emotional overwhelm
Chronic shame and low self-worth
Identity-related distress
Complex grief and relational wounds
Is EMDR safe?
Yes—when facilitated by a qualified therapist, EMDR is safe and structured. We begin by building safety, resourcing, and emotional regulation tools before any reprocessing begins. You are in control at all times, and we only go at a pace that feels manageable for you.
How long does EMDR therapy take?
It varies. Some people feel a shift after a few sessions, while others benefit from longer-term work, especially if they're dealing with complex or longstanding trauma. We’ll review progress together and make a plan that fits your needs. We will discuss this together in more detail during an assessment session.
Do you offer a free consultation?
Yes. I offer a 15-minute free consultation online. This gives us a chance to talk about what you’re looking for, whether EMDR feels like the right approach, and if we’d be a good fit to work together.
How do I get started?
You can fill out the contact form or email me directly to arrange your free consultation. I’ll respond within 24 hours and we can take it from there.
“I am not what happened to me. I am what I choose to become”
Carl Jung
“Courage doesn’t happen when you have all the answers. It happens when you are ready to face the questions you have been avoiding your whole life.”
Shannon L. Alder
“A very little key will open a very heavy door”
Charles Dickens
Get in touch
If you have any questions about EMDR therapy or the way I work, you’re very welcome to get in touch. I offer a free 15-minute consultation—an opportunity for us to talk about what’s bringing you to therapy, whether EMDR could be a helpful approach, and whether we might be a good fit to work together.
You can:
- Fill out the contact form
- Or call or message me on +44 (0)7815 156 495 if you'd prefer to speak directly or leave a voicemail.
I’m happy to answer any questions you may have before booking your first appointment.
I aim to respond to all enquiries within 24 hours. All contact is treated with the utmost confidentiality and handled using secure phone and email services. You can learn more about how your information is protected by reading my Privacy Policy.