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Tony Charles Systemic Psychotherapy

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FAQ

Family and Systemic Psychotherapy explores how our relationships, environments, and life experiences shape who we are and how we feel. It’s a collaborative approach that helps individuals, couples, and families make sense of patterns, improve communication, and create meaningful change.

Although often associated with work involving couples or families, systemic therapy can be incredibly effective when working with individuals. It offers a way of thinking that considers not only what’s going on internally, but also how our relationships, histories, identities, and wider contexts influence the way we feel, behave, and make sense of the world. This approach can be especially helpful when you’re feeling stuck in certain patterns, navigating complex relationships, or trying to understand your experiences more deeply. Systemic therapy supports individuals to reflect, gain clarity, and move forward in ways that feel more connected, grounded, and aligned with their values.

The first session is an opportunity to get to know each other, talk about what’s bringing you to therapy, and explore what you hope to gain. It’s also a chance for you to ask questions and see whether the space feels right for you.

Sessions are usually 50 minutes for individuals, and 60 minutes for couples and families. We’ll agree on the frequency together – some people come weekly, others fortnightly or monthly, depending on what works best for you.

There’s no fixed number of sessions. Some people come for short-term work around a specific issue, while others find longer-term therapy helpful. We’ll review progress together and decide what feels right for you.

Yes, I offer therapy and supervision sessions online via a secure, confidential video platform. This flexible option allows us to connect from the comfort of your own space, without the need to travel — while still maintaining a reflective, focused, and supportive environment.

Supervision is a reflective space for therapists to think about their practice, explore challenges, and develop professionally. I offer supervision to both trainees and experienced therapists from a range of models.

Group reflective practice offers professionals a structured space to pause, share, and think together. It’s particularly valuable in high-pressure environments, supporting team connection, insight, and wellbeing.

Yes, confidentiality is a core part of the work. There are some exceptions, such as where there are concerns about serious harm or safeguarding – and I’ll explain this clearly at the start.

You can get in touch via email or phone to arrange a free 20-minute initial consultation. This is a chance to talk through what you’re looking for and see if working together feels like the right fit.

Sessions take place via a secure video platform such as Zoom (or another encrypted service).
You’ll receive a private meeting link by email, for your session.
The format, structure, and duration are exactly the same as in-person sessions.
You can expect the same level of care, confidentiality, and professionalism as you would in a face-to-face setting.

Choose a quiet, private space where you won’t be interrupted.
Use headphones if you can — they help with sound quality and privacy.
Make sure your internet connection is stable and check your video/audio setup before we begin.
Reduce distractions by turning off notifications and letting others know you’re in a session.
You may want to bring a drink or a notebook — treat this as dedicated time and space for yourself.

If you’re not sure whether online sessions are right for you, we can explore this during our initial consultation and find what feels most comfortable and effective for your needs.