FAQs
How it works...
Getting started...
If you think you'd benefit from counselling or psychotherapy, the first step is to get in touch.
If you would like to ask me anything and/or get to know me before booking an initial session, I offer a free, 15-minute consultation over the phone or via video call. After this we may arrange an initial appointment for which the fee is currently £60.
Our first full, 50-minute session will be a chance for you to tell me about yourself and your hopes for therapy, to get to know me and ask questions. This will help you decide if we are a good match and from there, we can agree to work together in an open-ended way or within an agreed timeframe.
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How do I know if you're the right counsellor for me?
At the heart of successful counselling is the relationship between the client and the therapist, it relies on openness, trust, and rapport. I am very happy to arrange an initial session, either on the phone or by video call to talk about you, what you hope to achieve from counselling and how I might support you. There is absolutely no obligation, finding the right counsellor can take time, it is a highly personal decision and it has to be one with which you feel 100% comfortable.
Will counselling help me?
My aim, as a therapist, is to offer a safe, non-judgemental space where, with support, clients can explore and process their feelings and experiences to be able to move forward and live a successful life according to their authentic self. The majority of people find counselling hugely beneficial, but the process is not a quick fix cure, rather it is highly adaptive to each individual and every outcome is different. By working together, we open up the possibility of identifying any self- limiting behaviours and beliefs, born from trauma that may be holding you back, devise strategies to overcome each obstacle and allow you ultimately to realise your inner potential.
Is counselling 100% confidential?
Counselling is strictly confidential, and I consider it crucial to the success of the sessions that clients should feel comfortable enough to talk about any subject without judgement. However, I adhere to the BACP ethical framework, meaning whilst respecting your confidentiality, I may discuss the issues you bring to counselling with my supervisor. In cases where there is danger to yourself, others or suspected child abuse, statutory law and the BACP ethical framework obliges me to breach confidentiality and share information with third parties.
How long is each session and how frequently will we meet?
Sessions are normally 50 minutes long, but I am happy to consider your individual needs and preferences.
How many sessions will I need?
I am flexible to your needs, and some clients may feel one or two sessions can be sufficient to put them ‘back on the right track’, whereas others attend therapy for many months.
I would recommend a minimum of six weekly sessions, as this will provide us with the chance to explore the key issues together and outline an approach to tackle them, however, it is worthwhile reviewing progress and desired outcomes regularly throughout the sessions as these can evolve over time.
What is important is to make the right choice for you personally. Another option is what is called ‘intermittent therapy’ where if you have some sessions and feel you need a break, you can always return at a future point and continue where you left. I am happy to support your journey for as long as you feel is necessary, whether that is for a few weeks or longer.
How much will counselling cost?
My standard fee for each session is £60 for a 50 minute session.
Please do not be afraid to ask if you would like me to take your personal situation into consideration, as I do offer some concessionary places (dependent on availability).
You may also buy a bundle of sessions at a 10% discount and use the sessions over the course of 6 months. Think of it as stockpiling self care presents for yourself.​​
What if I need to cancel or I'm late?
Outside of exceptional circumstances, if you cancel a session below 24 hours in advance you will still be liable for the full fee. If you are late for your appointment, unfortunately, our session will still end at the same time.
Where will I attend my sessions?
At present my practice is exclusively online via video conferencing. Once you have initially reached out, I will then contact you directly prior to the session via email with the online link and further details. Please make sure you periodically check your email address, including your junk folder.
How can I prepare for my session?
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If you would like to find out any more information or want to book an initial consultation, please get in touch.
Get comfortable in a private space. If possible, it can be useful to take your session in a different area from where you work. Have water and tissues at hand, maybe even a notebook if there’s something we discuss that you feel compelled to jot down. I also strongly encourage you to put your phone on airplane mode, so you can stay as present as possible.
