FAQs

We have placed our frequently asked questions about our mental health services below, however if you have a question not covered here, please get in touch.

Is the session confidential?

Yes it is, with the exception that if you present as a risk to yourself or others we have a duty to act on that. Apart from this we will not share your information with anyone unless it is with your full agreement. Our office is located in the heart of a business community providing discretion and privacy for your appointments. We can also meet online or at an alternative agreed location.

Will this affect me being on the waiting list for the NHS Mental Health Services?

No and we would recommend you remain on the waiting list.

How and when do I pay?

Payment for your first session or group workshops or business packages will be paid in advance. These can be paid via bank transfer or invoice if requested. Please contact us for alternate ways to pay if necessary. If sessions are cancelled less than 24hrs notice they will incur a cancellation fee of £25. Failure to cancel an appointment will incur a 50% charge. If you are unable to attend we will try to reschedule,

How long must I wait to be seen?

We will endeavour to respond to you as quickly as we can and if not available immediately will be in touch within 72hrs to arrange an individual session as soon as possible and currently this will be within a 2 week period. For group sessions these will occur intermittently and will be posted on social media or contact us for details on our next group workshop.

How many sessions will I need and what happens if your service is not suitable for my needs?

Initially your first appointment will be for a comprehensive assessment of your mental health needs. At Insula Wellbeing we believe in open and honest communication, working together with you and alongside your preference regarding what happens next. We will discuss how many sessions may be required and if necessary this can be kept under review. If following our assessment it is agreed that we are not in a position to meet your needs or our service is not for you, we will endeavour to signpost you towards those who can. Our passion and commitment is ensuring that you get the right support you need, if that is not with us we will tell you.

How do I book an appointment?

You can email us via the link provided or message us through either instagram or Facebook. You can also call us on 028 91898182 or Sharon - 07786270954/Jessica - 07912757840 . If we are in a session and unable to answer please leave a message and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

How do I know you are qualified and working to a high standard?

If you are considering support from a therapist it is reassuring to know that they are working to high standards of practice within their profession. Social media will speak of lots of different types of therapy and supports which can often lead to confusion over who is qualified. Check the qualifications and experience of your therapist so that you can feel satisfied that they are who they say who they are, and that they are qualified to the advertised level.

At Insula Wellbeing We are registered members of our relevant Professional Bodies.

Sharon Rutherford is registered with Northern Ireland Social Care Council (NISCC) 1097649 and British Association of Social Workers (BASW) 149579.

Jessica Melville is registered with the Health Care Professionals Council (HCPC) OT 48457 and the Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT) 149579.

To find out more information about our registration and accreditation visit the Professional Bodies’ website and type in our name and registration number.

Being registered with a professional body means an individual must have achieved a substantial level of training and experience approved by their member organisation. It is also a regulator in control of setting standards in professional training, performance and conduct, and ensures professionals abide by their code of ethics and complaints procedure. It is a criminal offence for anyone to claim to be registered with a professional body if they are not.

What evidence based therapeutic techniques and interventions do you use?

Comprehensive mental health assessment
Sensory based

Motivational interviewing
Solution focused
Person Centred
Low intensity CBT
Distress tolerance

Behavioural activation
Goal setting
Problem solving
Stress management
Vocational rehabilitation

Resilience building
Assertiveness training
Healthy coping skills

Can you accommodate my physical health difficulties?

We are aware that those with mental health issues or in a supporting role can also have physical health problems. Our office does require you to be able to walk up a short flight of stairs or use a stair lift if needed. We can also arrange an alternative venue if more suitable. Physical difficulties should not stand in the way of your mental health needs.

Will I be asked to talk about things I don’t want to?

Absolutely not. At no time will you be forced to talk about things, however in order to make the most out of your session we would encourage openness and honesty and sometimes this will make you feel uncomfortable. We will pace our sessions with what works for you.

Will you focus on my helping me make sense of the past?

Our therapeutic interventions focus on your current symptoms “the here and now”. Our training, expertise and skills will help you to manage these using both talking therapies and practical sessions. It is not always necessary to go into your past. Not all mental health problems are linked to past trauma, many will face struggles as a consequence of their current circumstances and this is where we will specialise. If you need specialists supports regarding your past we will signpost you to where to go.

Do you prescribe medication?

No, your medication will be the primary responsibility of your GP and that will remain the case. Medication has a very important part in managing mental health but it is not the only part. We will help you develop and use additional strategies to really strengthen and work alongside what medication is doing.

Can I attend other mental health services alongside you?

In our experience often attending more than one therapeutic service can send mixed messages, lead to confusion and leave you feeling overwhelmed. If you are attending another mental health service please discuss it with us and we will be happy to delay our input if needed. Our service will always focus on you getting the help that is right for you when you need it.

What if I become distressed between sessions

When dealing with mental health struggles it can often challenge us in ways that make us feel uncomfortable. If we are doing our job properly it will push you a little outside your comfort zone as you move towards recovery. If you find yourself distressed between sessions in the first instance, try to use the techniques you have previously discussed. These may include distraction techniques, sensory techniques, journaling or physical exercise. If you feel you need immediate support you should speak with your GP, Doctors on call, lifeline and if necessary contact emergency services.