Therapy and Approaches
At Ripples Psychology, we provide individual therapy that helps you to overcome life's challenges. Our therapy sessions are tailored to your unique needs and we use evidence-based techniques to help you achieve your goals.
Individual Psychological Therapy
Nicola specialises in a range of evidence-based therapies, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). She takes an integrative approach, tailoring interventions to each individual’s needs and values and drawing on the best available scientific evidence and professional practice guidelines.
As a practitioner psychologist, Nicola works with both adults and children, adapting her methods to be age-appropriate and relevant to each client’s unique circumstances. She is particularly experienced in supporting meaningful behaviour change, helping clients achieve lasting improvements in their physical and psychological health. This includes lifestyle adjustments, managing chronic health conditions, developing coping strategies, and fostering resilience and self-compassion.
By blending therapeutic insight with practical behaviour change strategies, Nicola empowers clients of all ages to set realistic goals, overcome barriers, and build skills that support long-term wellbeing. Her approach is collaborative, personalised, and focused on creating sustainable, positive change in everyday life.
Behavioural Health Consultations
We offer one-off, specialist consultations designed to support sustainable change using evidence-based behavioural strategies. These focused sessions can help with lifestyle changes (such as diet, weight management, physical activity, or stopping smoking), adjusting to a chronic illness or a new diagnosis, managing the emotional impact of long-term health conditions, and improving sleep difficulties.
Drawing on established approaches including CBT and ACT, consultations are practical, collaborative, and tailored to your individual goals, providing structured support to help you move forward with confidence.
Specialist support for children
We offer warm, sensitive psychological support tailored to children’s emotional and developmental needs. Nicola provides a gentle, professional space where young people can explore their feelings, build resilience, and work towards their goals. Sessions are adapted to each child’s age, strengths, and interests, using evidence-based approaches in a way that feels safe and engaging. We also recognise the vital role of parents and carers, and offer guidance and support to help you understand your child’s emotional world, respond to their needs with confidence, and continue supporting progress at home. Wherever appropriate, we work collaboratively with families to ensure children feel supported both in sessions and in their everyday lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
Going to see a therapist for the first time can be nerve-wracking, and many people worry about whether it is the right thing to do. It is an entirely personal choice, and we hope that through Nicola's free 15-minute initial telephone/video consultation, we can help you to decide whether you would like to come to sessions with her.
What happens in the first appointment?
After a free consultation, you and Nicola will meet together and think about what has led you to seeking therapy at this time. It will give her the chance to understand more about you and your difficulties, as well as giving you the opportunity to ask her anything that you want to know about how you could work together.
How many sessions do you offer?
Nicola does not work to a specific time-frame, instead working with you to do what suits your circumstances. Sometimes people might come for up to six sessions, others might choose to have therapy for a year or more. There is no right or wrong, and you can review your progress together with Nicola.
How much does therapy cost?
Therapy is an investment in you; individual sessions cost £110 per hour. Nicola may be able to offer concessionary rates for those who need them, please get in touch if this might help.
Do you accept insurance?
We are registered to support individuals with BUPA. Please ensure that you check your individual policy or contact your provider directly to ensure that cover has been accepted for the treatment planned. It is the policy holder's responsibility to ensure that treatment is pre-authorised.
Where do sessions take place?
Sessions take place online via a secure platform. If you're local to Malton/York, sessions can take place in our purpose-designed, private therapy studio. With a private entrance and cosy interior, our aim is that you feel comfortable coming to sessions.
How long does a therapy session last?
Sessions last for 50 minutes.
What is your cancellation policy?
For your first appointment Nicola requires 48 hours notice. Once it has been agreed to meet on a regular basis Nicola will reserve the same time slot for you each week/fortnight. If you are unable to attend a session, the session will be charged at the full rate. However, Nicola will always try to offer you an alternative time slot if she can.
What if I need urgent or emergency advice?
For any non-urgent issues, you can contact Nicola by email and she will aim to respond within 2 working days. Nicola does not offer a crisis service, and therefore if you require urgent or emergency support please speak with your GP's out of hours service or NHS crisis team. In the event of an emergency, please dial 999 or 111 or go to your nearest A&E. The following helplines or organisations may also be helpful:
Samaritans Call - 116 123 (free, 24/7)
Shout Crisis Text Line - Text SHOUT to 85258 (free, 24/7)
National Suicide Prevention Helpline - Call 0800 689 5652 (evenings and overnight)
PAPYRUS HOPELINE247 – for under-35s experiencing suicidal thoughts: Call 0800 068 4141 (24/7)
CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) – support for men: Call 0800 58 58 58 (evenings)
YoungMinds Parents Helpline - Call 0808 802 5544
Childline – for children and young people under 19 - Call 0800 1111 (24/7)
The Mix – for people under 25: Call 0808 808 4994