Frequently Asked Questions
What to expect
Like many people, you may feel nervous before your first counselling session. You may be wondering what you’ll say, how you’ll begin, or you may be anxious about crying. There is no ‘right’ way to start. We will begin wherever you are.
What happens in the free introductory call?
Taking those first steps into the unknown can be really challenging. Knowing where to go or who to see can be equally difficult and confusing. Understanding this, I offer a free 15-minute introductory call, with no obligation to go forward. This provides an opportunity for us to meet, for you to experience something of what working together might be like, and for me to hear a little about what you are hoping for.
Do you work online?
Absolutely. Counselling and psychotherapy can work very well online, and for some people the familiarity and privacy of their own surroundings can make it easier to talk openly. I can also offer sessions by telephone if that would suit you better.
Do we have to sit inside?
Not at all. For some people, sharing feels easier when walking side by side or sitting in nature — ‘walk and talk’. We can be creative in discovering what works best for you.
How much does it cost?
The introductory call is free. One-hour sessions are £65. Concessionary rates may be available, depending on circumstances.
How long is a session?
One hour is a great length for a single session.
How many sessions will I need?
We could get stuck in and work passionately to make the most of a single session if that is what you want. However, taking time over a number of sessions can allow a deeper relationship to develop and create space to explore more openly, with the possibility of lasting change. What we encounter together through repeated sessions can mirror and support change in your daily life. We can talk about what feels right for you during the initial appointment and check in as we go. You are free to end counselling at any time.
What frequency is best for counselling?
Every client is different, as are the circumstances of their lives. That said, weekly sessions can help to build momentum and allow the counselling experience to become more meaningfully integrated into daily life. We can discuss what frequency feels appropriate for you.
What happens if I need to cancel or change an appointment?
A minimum of 24 hours’ notice is required for cancelling or rescheduling an appointment. The full fee will be charged for sessions missed or cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice. If you need to cancel or change an appointment, please let me know by email as soon as possible.
Are the sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is an important part of creating a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. What you share in sessions is treated as confidential, with a small number of important exceptions. As part of my professional practice, I regularly discuss my work with a qualified supervisor to ensure that I am working safely, effectively and ethically. I may discuss aspects of our work in supervision, but identifying details are removed wherever possible. There may also be exceptional circumstances where I need to share information if I believe there is a serious risk of harm to you or someone else, if there are safeguarding concerns, or where I am legally required or authorised to disclose information. Wherever possible, I would discuss this with you before taking any action.
Out-of-hours contact
I endeavour to reply to emails within 24 hours, Monday to Thursday. At other times, it may take me longer to respond. I respect clients’ privacy and the integrity of the counselling relationship and its boundaries by intentionally not following or connecting with clients on social media platforms.
If you are experiencing a mental health emergency or believe you are in immediate danger, call 999 or attend your local A&E department. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis and need urgent support, you can call NHS 111 and select the mental health option where available, or contact Samaritans on 116 123, free, 24 hours a day. You can also text SHOUT to 85258 for free, 24 hours a day. If you are under 19, you can contact Childline on 0800 1111.
Have a question that isn’t listed here?
Get in touch and I’ll get back to you as soon as I can.