Your Questions, Answered

It is completely normal to feel a little nervous before your first session, particularly if you have never had counselling before.

Our first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other, talk about what has brought you to counselling and what you would like support with. You don’t need to have everything worked out beforehand.

We will work together at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

That’s okay. You don’t need to know exactly what to say or where to start.

We can take some time to explore what is happening for you and what feels important. You are welcome to bring whatever is on your mind, even if you are not sure how to put it into words.

Confidentiality is an important part of counselling. What you share with me will normally remain confidential.

There are some circumstances where I may need to share information, for example if I believe there is a serious and immediate risk of harm to you or someone else, where there are safeguarding concerns, or where I am legally required to do so.

Where possible and appropriate, I would discuss this with you first.

The relationship between counsellor and client is very important, and it is understandable that you may want to make sure I am the right counsellor for you.

The initial telephone conversation gives us an opportunity to talk about what you are looking for and ask any questions you may have. There is no obligation to continue.

If, after starting counselling, you feel that we are not the right fit, we can talk about this openly.

No.

Counselling is a personal choice, and there is no pressure to continue if you decide it isn’t right for you.

We can discuss what you would like from counselling and review how things are going as we work together.

Each counselling session lasts 50 minutes.

This will depend on your individual circumstances, needs and availability.

We can discuss what feels appropriate for you and review this as our work progresses.

Yes. I offer counselling online, by telephone and in person.

We can discuss which option feels most comfortable and suitable for you.

An individual 50-minute counselling session is £50.

I also have a limited number of reduced-fee spaces available for students and people experiencing financial hardship. Please get in touch if this would be helpful.

Yes.

I offer a free initial telephone conversation so that we can briefly discuss what has brought you to counselling, answer any questions you may have and see whether we feel we would be a good fit to work together.

There is no obligation to continue after this conversation.

I kindly ask for at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or rearrange a session.

Sessions cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice may be charged in full.

It is completely understandable to feel unsure.

Everyone’s experience of counselling is different, and there is no guarantee that it will feel helpful in the same way for everyone. My approach is collaborative, which means we can talk together about what you need and what feels helpful for you.

You can contact me by [email / telephone / contact form].

You don’t need to have everything figured out before getting in touch. If you have a question or simply want to find out a little more about counselling, you’re very welcome to contact me.