Frequently Asked Questions

Booking an appointment is straightforward. You can get in touch using the enquiry form on this page, by calling 0800 233 5102, or by emailing enquiries@pankhurstpsychiatry.co.uk. You do not need a GP referral to book — you are welcome to contact my practice directly as a self-referral, or your GP or another clinician can refer you on your behalf. Once I have received your enquiry, a member of the practice will be in touch within one working day to discuss the next steps and confirm a convenient appointment.

Yes. In-person appointments are available at Berkshire Grove Hospital in Maidenhead, Esher Groves in Esher, and the Guildford clinic. I also offer video and telephone consultations for those who prefer to be seen remotely, whether for convenience, accessibility, or personal preference. Remote consultations are conducted via a secure platform and provide the same standard of care as face-to-face appointments.

Yes, I accept patients covered by most major private health insurance plans. I am currently registered with Aviva, AXA, Bupa, Cigna, Simplyhealth, Prudential, Benenden, and WPA. If your insurer is not listed here, please do get in touch — I am happy to advise on your specific situation. Before your appointment, please ensure that you have obtained pre-authorisation from your insurer and that you have a valid authorisation number, as this is typically required before treatment can begin.
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Absolutely — self-funding patients are very welcome in my practice. Many of my patients choose to fund their care privately without going through an insurer, and this can often provide greater flexibility around appointment times and the treatment pathway. For more information on fees and what to expect, please visit the self-funding page or contact the practice directly and we will be happy to discuss this with you.

You are very welcome to contact my practice directly — a referral from your GP is not required. Many of my patients choose to self-refer, and I am equally happy to receive referrals from GPs, other consultants, or mental health professionals. If you do have a GP, I will write to them following your assessment to keep them informed of your care, with your consent.

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Most patients are seen within two weeks of their initial enquiry, though this can vary depending on clinic availability at your preferred location. I am committed to offering timely appointments so that you are not left waiting at what can be a difficult time. Please do get in touch and we will do our best to accommodate you as quickly as possible.
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This depends on the terms and limits of your individual policy. Some insurance plans cover the full cost of psychiatric consultations and treatment; others apply excesses, benefit limits, or restrictions on the number of sessions. I would strongly recommend contacting your insurer directly before your first appointment to confirm exactly what is covered under your policy, including any excess that may apply and whether there are any limits on outpatient psychiatric care. I am always happy to provide your insurer with any clinical information they require.

I ask that any cancellation or rescheduling is made with as much notice as possible, so that the appointment time can be offered to another patient. Appointments cancelled with more than 48 hours' notice will not be charged. Cancellations made with between 24 and 48 hours' notice are charged at 50% of the full appointment fee. Appointments cancelled with fewer than 24 hours' notice, or missed without prior notice, are charged at the full appointment fee. If you have any difficulty keeping an appointment, please contact the practice as soon as possible and we will do our best to help.