Diction Resolution Therapy is a focused counselling approach developed by Andrew Dettman over nearly twenty years of clinical practice. It works at the precise point where healthy problem-solving gets interrupted: between commitment and the capacity to receive contradiction.

Rather than addressing behaviour, mood, or thinking patterns in isolation, DRT works at the underlying structure. As that structure is restored, patterns that felt permanent begin to shift.

CBT is excellent at reducing distress quickly and providing practical tools. Andrew uses it in the early stabilisation phase of the work. It gives you brakes.

DRT goes further. It works at the level of inner language, meaning, and the clarity of will. It addresses why the same problem keeps returning even after CBT and other approaches have helped. It repairs the engine rather than applying the brakes more firmly.

Yes. Many of the people Andrew works with have already received counselling, therapy, medication, coaching, or recovery support. Previous help is not a barrier. In many cases it is a foundation.

If the same difficulty keeps returning despite genuine effort, that is exactly the situation DRT is designed for.

DRT is most commonly used for alcohol and substance addiction, gambling, compulsive behaviours, food and sugar cycles, work compulsions, anxiety, depression, and recovery that has stalled or keeps relapsing.

Andrew also works with people experiencing religious disorientation, cross-cultural confusion, and a loss of meaning or direction. If your difficulty is not on this list it may still be the right approach. A first conversation will clarify that.

Face to face sessions are held at the Ellesmere Centre, 861 Holderness Road, Hull, HU8 9BA. It is a quiet, private setting.

Online sessions are available via Zoom for clients across the UK. Email therapy is also available for those who prefer to work through writing and reflection.

For most people and most presenting difficulties, yes. Online sessions via Zoom are fully encrypted and Andrew is qualified in Online Counselling Skills.

There are some situations where face to face is preferable. This is something Andrew will discuss with you at assessment if relevant.

This varies depending on the person and the presenting difficulty. A typical pattern is four to six sessions of stabilisation work, followed by eight to twelve sessions of deeper DRT work. Sessions are usually weekly.

Andrew will discuss this with you at assessment and agree a plan before work begins. Progress is reviewed together throughout.

The first session is an assessment. Andrew will listen carefully to where you are, what you have tried, and what you are hoping for. Together you will map the pattern, agree on goals, and set the frame for safe effective work.

There is no pressure to commit to anything before or during that session. It is simply a chance to see whether this is the right fit.

Fees are discussed at assessment and agreed before work begins. Andrew works with clients to find a format and fee arrangement that is sustainable. Payment is accepted by BACS or PayPal.

Full details are on the pricing and policies page.

Please give at least 48 hours notice if you need to cancel or reschedule a session. Sessions cancelled with less than 48 hours notice may be charged in full.

If something unexpected happens, please get in touch as soon as possible. Andrew will always try to be reasonable.

Yes. Everything discussed in sessions remains private as a matter of professional practice. Andrew works within the BACP Ethical Framework which sets clear standards around confidentiality.

There are legal exceptions: if there is a risk of serious harm to you or to others, confidentiality may need to be broken. Wherever possible this would be discussed with you first. Andrew will explain this in full at the start of the work.

This service is not suitable for acute crisis or emergencies. If you or someone else is at immediate risk, please call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.

For urgent emotional support, call Samaritans on 116 123 at any time. For urgent medical advice call 111. For text support, text SHOUT to 85258.

If you are in a difficult period but not in acute crisis, please do get in touch. Andrew will respond within 48 hours.

Yes. Andrew maintains regular clinical supervision, ongoing CPD, an Enhanced DBS check, and full professional indemnity and public liability insurance. He is a registered member of BACP and a member of The Healing Trust.