Frequently Asked Questions

What happens in the free 10-15 minute telephone or video consultation?

The purpose of the 10 minute telephone or video consultation is to ascertain whether we feel we are the "right fit". The therapeutic relationship is crucial to the work, therefore here we will have some time to briefly discuss what you are looking to achieve, for me to answer any questions you may have, and to set up a first session.

What can I expect my first session to be like?

I understand that it can be daunting going into the first session, so I will spend time getting to know you, learning what your goals are, what your expectations for therapy are, what you are looking to achieve and outlining how often we will meet and for how many weeks (unless it is open-ended, but we will usually have a review session after 6 weeks). In the session we will also discuss any fears you have or reservations in coming to therapy as well as exploring my personal therapeutic approach. This session will also include an initial assessment.

How long does each therapy session last?

Each therapy session lasts 50 minutes (this is a standard therapy “hour”), except for the free 10 minute phone or video consultation. Sessions are typically held weekly, on the same day and time each week.

What if I can't make my session?

My cancellation policy (which will be detailed in our working contract) states that there is a 48 hour cancellation policy. Please also discuss with me if you have any planned holidays or periods away so we can ensure you get all the sessions you want in the time we are together. If you cancel within 48 hours of our agreed upon session time, then you will still be contracted to pay for the full cost of the missed session.

How do I pay?

Payments will be via bank-transfer, details will be given to you when we arrange our first session. Payment must be made in advance, at least 24 hours before the session start time. If you would rather pay by cash, please let me know before our sessions commence.

What does a counsellor do?

A counsellor is a trained mental health professional who provides a safe, confidential space for you to talk about what is happening in your life. Their role is not to judge or tell you what to do, but to support you in:

Exploring your thoughts, feelings and behaviours
Making sense of past and present experiences
Developing healthier ways of coping with stress and difficulty
Improving communication, boundaries and relationships
Building resilience, self-awareness and emotional wellbeing

What issues can counselling help with?

Counselling can be beneficial for a wide range of emotional, psychological and life-related difficulties. Some people may not know what is wrong, they may feel stuck or that something is just not right, this can be explored in counselling. People may seek counselling for (this list is not exhaustive and you can bring any issues which are troubling you to counselling):

Anxiety, worry, panic attacks and health anxiety
Depression, low mood and loss of motivation
Stress related to work, finances, caring responsibilities or education
Bereavement, grief and loss (including pet bereavement)
Relationship and family problems, separation and divorce
Low self-esteem, shame and confidence issues
Trauma, abuse and difficult childhood experiences
Life transitions such as redundancy, retirement, relocation or becoming a parent
Long-term health conditions, chronic pain or disability
Loneliness and isolation