Here are some common questions and answers
Do you take insurance?
No I don’t work with insurance companies sorry. I only work with private individuals.
I provide the first therapy session at the reduced price of £29 click here to book instead of £39
What is therapy and counselling in simple terms?
It’s a structured conversation with me (Michael) to help you solve problems, change behaviors, or process emotions. To help you move forward.
Do I get to work with you Michael?
Yes, you will work directly with me, hopefully benefitting from my 20 years of experience, not someone who is currently studying therapy or new to the area.
How I Compare to Other UK Online Therapy Services
| Feature | Michael Patrick | Harley Therapy | Think CBT | BetterHelp UK |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Session Price | £39 (was £67) | £85 – £120 | £75+ | £50+ weekly (subscription) |
| Session Length | 50 minutes | 50 minutes | 50 minutes | Varies (chat/video) |
| Therapist Consistency | Always me | May vary | Assigned | May change anytime |
| Free Intro Call | Not currently | Sometimes | Not offered | Not offered |
| Second Session Price | £39 | Full price | Full price | Not applicable |
| Ongoing Session Price | £39 | £85+ | £75+ | Ongoing subscription |
| Joining Fee | None | None | None | None |
| Platform / App Required | No | No | No | Yes |
| 1-to-1 Real Therapist Access | Yes – every session | Yes | Yes | Often chat-based or rotating |
| Booking System | Instant with email confirmation | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Personalised, Human Experience | ✅ Absolutely | Varies | Limited | ❌ Often generic |
I would like to get to know you and help you. Time provided. After a sabbatical. I anticipate, I will get very busy again. So please book early to avoid disapointment. Because once I reach my capacity. Where I feel that I can give clients the time and focus they deserve. I will stop accepting new clients. My practice is not about doing as many hours as possible. It is about providing a quality of service. Listening to clients and concentrating on their thoughts takes preparation. You’re not a random assignment in a big platform.
Do you charge a one-time membership fee?
No, I would not even consider it. As a professional therapist. I charge based upon a session of 50 minutes.
Do I need therapy?
If you’re asking, maybe. But really, if you’re stuck, struggling, or looping on the same problem—yes, it can really help. In some countries people have therapy every week just to talk about life. Not because they have serious issues to navigate.
How do I find a good therapist?
Referrals, reviews, and fit. Rapport matters more than fancy degrees. The more qualifications people put in my face as a way of persuading me, the more I question whether we will develop any kind of rapport personally. But thats just me. Being a member of a recognised therapy related organisation is no guarantee of good practice. One such organisation goes on and on about ethical practices of members. Whilst many of their members prolong therapy unnecessarily to make more money. I would like to think that I work beyond BACP standards.
What happens in a therapy session?
You talk, I listen, I guide. Sometimes I push back, my therapy follows a holistic approach, I want us to agree on the result that you want and I will try my very best to help deliver you there – mentally. It’s tailored to you. One size does not fit all in therapy or life.
How long does therapy last?
Sessions: usually 50 minutes. The full process? Normally spread out over 2 months on average. With some clients deciding to see me on a regular basis for much longer, simply because they like the support mechanism. An interesting point is that some clients decide they want to speak to me each week with their challenges rather than friends, spouse or family. Because they feel their relationships with those people are better without discussion of their challenges and that it keeps those relationships healthy and buoyant.
Is therapy confidential?
Yes totally – unless you’re a danger to yourself, others, or involved in abuse. Then I have to act appropriately. I am highly ethical in my practice.
Does therapy actually work?
Yes—but only if you work it. No magic. No therapist can do the reps for you. Also people respond in different ways and the time it takes is specific to you. Everybody has their own response mechanism. Do not compare yourself to others.
How much does therapy cost?
I charge £39 currently for a 50minute therapy session, instead of the normal price of £67. You will pay £39 for the whole time you work with me and no joining fee to residents of the United Kingdom.
Can I do therapy online?
Totally. I use Zoom and you can book through my online calendar. I also provide therapy using whatsapp.
What’s the difference between a therapist and a psychiatrist?
Therapists talk it out. Psychiatrists can prescribe meds. Sometimes you need both. I do not prescribe any medicine or give diagnosis of your mental condition.
Do you prescribe meds?
No
Do you diagnose mental illness?
No. I would see a registered doctor if you wish to be diagnosed with a potential mental illness.
Do you work with a minimum age?
Yes I only work with people over the age of 21.
Do I have to talk about my childhood?
I don’t focus on your childhood. It might come up as part of our conversations. But it is upto you, to the degree that you want to discuss it and whether it will helps you.
What if I don’t like your therapy style?
Switch. This is your life, your money, your growth. Don’t settle with me. I won’t be offended. Some of us are Pepsi, some of us are Coca Cola. It is okay. All I want you to know is that I tried my best and you had my total focus.
How do I know if therapy is working?
You’ll feel progress—less stuck, more aware, better habits. Track your own changes.
Is therapy only for mental illness?
Nope. It’s for growth, clarity, and leveling up—like a coach for your mind.
How often should I go to therapy?
Standard is weekly then progress from there.
Will therapy change my relationships?
Most likely, yes. As you change, your dynamics shift too.
Can therapy make things worse?
It can feel worse before it gets better—digging up stuff is hard work. But I want to plan for future focus from the beginning of our therapy together.
What types of therapy do you provide?
My main focus is upon Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, combinged with a holistic approach. Don’t stress the label; focus on the fit. Forget cookie-cutter therapy. I have 20 years of clinical experience turned into life-changing breakthroughs for YOU. This is not the big therapy platform designed to maximise revenue.
What’s the biggest mistake people make in therapy?
Holding back. If you’re not honest, you’re just wasting time and cash. Remember our conversations are confidential. It is your opportunity to explore your life and future.