Frequently Asked Questions
How can counselling help me:
Counselling can provide you with a safe space where you can talk about your difficulties, explore life events, patterns of behaviours and thinking while feeling supported and accepted. The insight and understanding gained can help you understand yourself better, find solutions, ways to cope and bring you a sense of purpose and hope.
Is Counselling Right for Me?
A free 15-minute phone consultation will be a chance for you to explore this initially and we can discuss it further in your first session. This will help you to get clear on your needs, expectations and how they fit in with counselling.
What can I expect?
I provide a space that is confidential, non-judgemental and supportive for you to express your feelings without worry of burdening anyone else. We will work together at a pace that is comfortable for you as we explore your difficulties, life events, relationships and patterns of thinking and behaviours.
How long is each session?
Each session lasts 50 minutes.
How much does counselling cost?
Counselling costs £80-100 per session and should be paid in advance in order to secure next session. For organisational work, costs are negotiated upon according to the need of the client. Please note, there is a surcharge for professional letters or reports. Please contact me for more details.
How many sessions will I need?
This is a common question with no definitive answer. The number of sessions required varies enormously and depends on your individual needs. We can talk about this during your first session and will review it on an ongoing basis.
How do I make an appointment?
Call or email me, telling me briefly what’s happening for you and your contact details. Your email/ voicemail is confidential and only heard or read by me. Once I have received your call/email we will arrange an initial 15-minute phone consultation which I offer free of charge. I aim to respond to all enquiries within 24-48hours.
What happens if I miss a session or need to cancel?
Cancellations made up to 48 hours in advance will not be charged. E.g if your appointment is on Wednesday 3pm, you should cancel by Monday 3pm at the latest. Cancellations made with less than 48 hours’ notice will be charged at the standard rate (£50). I am happy to try and reschedule your appointment where possible.
How often will I attend counselling?
Counselling works best if you can commit to one session per week. If you are unable to do this, I am happy to discuss alternative options with you in order to meet your needs.
How do I know if you’re qualified?
I am fully qualified and a Registered Member with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I abide by their Ethical Framework and continue to demonstrate fitness to practice. I am also registered with the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP) and abide by their Code of Ethics and Professional Practise. I am a practising Lecturer in Counselling and Mental Health at an academic institution.
What about confidentiality?
I take your confidentiality very seriously and we will discuss how I protect your confidentiality during your first session.
