Frequently Asked Questions
Your Questions Answered
What is counselling?
Counselling is a talking therapy which helps people understand their thoughts and feelings in order to successfully use tools and techniques to improve their life. The job of the counsellor is not to 'fix' the client, but to enable the client to feel comfortable and safe enough to explore what is going on for them. A good counsellor helps the client to be autonomous, by being a supportive guide whilst they learn to make their own decisions and follow their own pathways.
What can I expect from my free consultation?
In this brief chat, you can explain a little about what you’re currently struggling with and we can discuss what types of therapy might be beneficial for you. Sometimes, just having a clearer understanding of what is happening and the knowledge that most people will feel the same way at some point, can help you begin to feel better straightaway. Knowing that you can have a first session without a long-term commitment means you can really decide if the therapy is right for you.
Is it confidential?
I abide by a strict ethical framework where all information is completely confidential.
The only time this confidentiality may be breached is if there was an extreme circumstance such as serious risk of harm to yourself or others or serious illegal activities such as drug trafficking or terrorism. If such circumstances were to arise, I would still discuss this disclosure with you before breaking that confidentiality.
I also abide by strict GDPR rules which mean the only written notes I keep, only include initials rather than full names and are kept in a secure unit. These notes will be destroyed after 2 years of end of contract.
What are your fees?
Private Client Fees are £60 per session. Each session is 50 minutes. Sessions can be either face to face, telephone or online.
My fees for privately funded counselling may differ from the rates agreed with insurance providers. This reflects the additional administrative requirements that can accompany insurance-funded work, alongside the counselling sessions themselves.
All applicable fees and arrangements will be confirmed before sessions commence.
Do sessions need to be weekly?
Not at all! I offer fortnightly counselling sessions, which can be a great option if you prefer a little more breathing space between appointments.
Having two weeks between sessions gives you time to reflect, process what we've discussed and explore how things are developing in your everyday life. It can also make counselling easier to fit around work, family and other commitments.
Fortnightly sessions can work really well, but it's worth remembering that counselling is a process, and progress takes time. With longer gaps between appointments, it may take a little longer to explore things in depth and work towards your goals.
We'll discuss what feels manageable for you and find a pace that works for your needs, while keeping expectations realistic.