Do you ever wonder how your life would be & what you would do if you were no longer confined by the difficulties you are experiencing now? Imagine being free from past painful experiences. This can definitely be a reality and I have seen it happen. It is truly inspiring to witness.
I can’t promise you will experience this; but I can promise to do my best as we work together on whatever issues you bring. And if we fail to achieve this wonder together, it is not your fault. It most likely means I have more to learn.
About Me
My Background
After leaving school I worked in a Bank, until taking time out and having children. During this time I got involved in Charity work, which I really enjoyed; but unfortunately it didn’t pay the bills, so I studied to become a Social Worker, which I thought would allow me to do the work I loved while earning money. Over time I realised it wasn’t allowing me to do the work that inspired me, so I studied and became a CBT therapist. I really enjoyed this work and did it for a long time. Then I trained as an EMDR Therapist; and seeing transforming changes in people’s lives, is what truly inspires me.
I have worked in The Priory Hospital and NHS. Now I have a Private Practice.
Qualifications & Training
Qualified as a Social Worker BA(SS), majoring in Social Work and Psychology.
I became an ASW (Approved social worker – currently called AHMP). After receiving a mental health social work award, I became an ASW (Approved Social Worker), currently called AHMP (Approved Mental Health Practitioner)
Post Qualifying award in social work
Postgraduate Diploma in CBT
Became a CBT Supervisor
Completed EMDR training
I am currently working towards EMDR accreditation, and I sometimes ask my clients if I may record our Sessions. This is because, in order to become accredited, I need to submit recordings of some of my sessions to my Supervisor, as evidence of the quality of my work.
Personally, if I was a client, I wouldn’t like my sessions recorded for someone else to listen to, even although I know the person listening is judging the therapist and not me. So, although I might ask if you would be willing to give me permission to record, it is perfectly fine if you decline. It won’t affect our relationship, or your therapy in any way.
What to do in an emergency
Please note – I am unable to provide a Crisis Service.
If you need urgent help or advice, but it is not life threatening, you can call 111.
Alternatively, you can call Samaritans 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 116 123.
You can also speak to someone you trust, or contact your GP.
If you or anyone else is in immediate danger of harm – CALL 999.
Or go to the A&E Department of the nearest hospital if you have time to do that.
Cost and Contact
Address: Merrill Hicks Psychotherapy, Colchester, Essex
Phone: 07799 391737
Email: merrillhickspsychotherapy@gmail.com
My Working Days & Hours:
Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays - 8.30am – 5.00pm.
I offer appointments both In Person and Online.
There is no Secretary at this practice so emails and telephone calls are only responded to on my working days.
Outside these working hours, you can leave a message, and I will respond as soon as possible when I am in the office.
Attending & Paying for Therapy:
I don’t ask clients to sign up for a particular number of sessions; and I have no contracts they need to sign; and I don’t send out Bills.
All I ask is that clients pay me the agreed fee directly after each session. In cash for In-Person sessions and directly into my bank
account for On-line sessions. I give receipts immediately for cash payments and once a month for On-line sessions.
I require at least 24hours notice for any cancellations, otherwise the full fee is payable.
I also require clients to attend sessions at least weekly, less frequent attendance interferes with momentum.
As we have no therapy contract, you are free to terminate sessions at any time.
I just require 24 hours notice. I would however, suggest that you give yourself at least 3-4 sessions to decide whether or not
the therapy is worth the cost, because we need to get to know each other and we need a good shared understanding of your
difficulties before starting intervention.
Cost:
Counselling / Psychotherapy £50 per Session (50 minutes) and £75 per Session (80minutes).
Low Cost Psychotherapy:
I offer a few low cost Sessions £40 per Session (50 minutes) for those who feel they really need therapy but can’t afford it.
If you need one of these appointments, please let me know and send information about your financial situation.
Latest Notice
Availability updates will appear here
Contact Me
If you would like to Book a Therapy Session, or if you would just like to talk about possibly attending therapy, please complete the online submission form below. I will then call you to talk through any concerns you may have; or to book an appointment for you, should you wish one.
Contact Me
If you would like to book a session or ask a question, fill out the form below.