What happens in the first session?
This is our opportunity to explore your expectations from the counselling work and what issues you would like to work on. As this is our first session together, it will give you a good indication of whether you would like to continue further and book the next session, or you may decide not to continue.
How many sessions will I need?
This really is an open question with no definitive answer, as every client/ counsellor relationship Is different. In my experience it’s usually a mutual decision to end the work together at a stage that feels right, however it’s your counselling and therefore as a client you can decide to end the work at any stage you feel is appropriate.
Can I bring someone into the sessions with me?
As a general rule, I don’t work with a third party in the room, however I appreciate that some clients might want to bring a third party into the first session for support and if it helps you to settle in and feel comfortable then it's fine to do so. In other cases, there may be a necessity, for example a guide dog, a translator etc. We can discuss this prior to meeting and agree the right way forward. If you would like someone to accompany you, there is a waiting area for anyone that has come with you, where they can wait whilst the session is taking place.
Are you a member of any professional organisations?
Yes, I am a member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and work within their ethical framework, which can be found on the BACP website.
Will you give me advice or tell me what to do?
As a counsellor, my role is not to give you advice or to give you my opinion. I will work with you to explore your experiences, thoughts and feelings enabling you make your own changes, based on your own conclusions.
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How do I book a session?
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Please contact me via email, phone or text and I'll be in touch with available appointment days/ times and answer any questions you might have before we meet.
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How long does a session last?
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For individuals, sessions last 50 minutes and for couples it's 60 minutes.
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Is there a minimum number of sessions?
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No, there is no minimum or maximum number of sessions, we'll work together and generally you'll know when you want to stop the work together or continue.
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What if I want to reduce the frequency of my sessions?
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Initially I recommend to have weekly sessions, however many people decide to have less frequent sessions when they feel ready. The frequency is dependent on what you want and feel you need. If you want to book a session every couple of weeks, monthly or as and when you want to, that's fine. The most important part of therapy is that it works for you.
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