What is counselling?
​Counselling is a talking therapy that involves discussing your concerns with a trained therapist. Counsellors are trained to not only listen to you but to also help you find ways of coping and overcoming the issues that are causing you concern. Talking to a counsellor is different to talking about your problems with a friend or relative. A counsellor is neutral and impartial and won't tell you what to do or what you 'should' be thinking or feeling.

​What can counselling help with?
There are lots of different reasons that people come to counselling. Some of the reasons include:
​- Mental health issues such as anxiety, stress and depression
​- Difficult life events such as a bereavement, divorce or the breakdown of a relationship
​- Difficult emotions such as anger or guilt
​- Low self-esteem or confidence

How can counselling help you?
​Counselling can help you to understand how the difficulties you are experiencing are affecting you and can help you find ways of managing, coping or moving on from the problem.

​How long does counselling take?
​Counselling is not a quick fix. It requires a commitment from yourself to attend on a regular basis in order to make the most of the process. It is advisable to attend counselling on a weekly or fortnightly basis in order for a good relationship to develop between client and counsellor. It is this relationship and the trust that builds that facilitates a great deal of the work.
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How long is a counselling session?
A counselling session is 50 minutes long. It is the counsellors responsibility to ensure the session ends on time. If you arrive late for your session, the session can usually go ahead but must still end on time. It is not possible to extend the length of the session to make up for the lost time.

​How can I book an appointment?
​You can book an introductory session by getting in touch via email, text or you can call me on 07500 712773 to book an appointment.
​Whichever way you choose to get in touch I will respond as soon as possible. ​I check my messages regularly so you should not have to wait too long for reply. ​Please note I do not return missed calls where no message has been left.
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Tel : 07500 712773

​What appointments do you offer?
​I work evenings and during the day so hopefully I will have something to suit you. I will always do my best to fit you in so please ask. Sorry but I do not offer weekend appointments.

How much is a counselling session?
​Counselling is £55.00 a session.
Trainee counsellors are offered a reduced price.

​What happens if I need to cancel a session?
​If you need to cancel a session I require at least 48 hours notice otherwise a cancellation fee will apply.
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​Is counselling confidential?
​Counselling is confidential except in special circumstances where I believe there is a risk of serious harm to yourself or others. Other limits to confidentiality will be discussed with you at your assessment.

​What happens at the first appointment?
​The first session is a chance for us to meet each other and give you an idea of whether you will be happy to work with me. During this session, I will ask you some questions which will give me an idea of what is bringing you to counselling. As well as asking you a few questions I will go through the counselling contract with you.

​How do I pay for counselling?
​I accept cash at the end of the session (receipt available on request). You can also pay by bank transfer at the end of the session or in advance. I am unable to accept cheques and I do not have a card machine.

​Am I free to leave counselling whenever I choose?
​You can leave the counselling at any time you choose just the same way as you chose to begin counselling in the first place. Please be mindful of my cancellation policy when deciding to leave and if possible, I do recommend a final session so we can have a planned ending.

​Are you a qualified counsellor?
​Yes I am. It took me many years to train to be a counsellor and my qualifications include a DipHE (Diploma in Higher Education) and a BA Hons (Batchelor of Arts Degree with Honours) and a Masters Degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy. I am committed to attending regular training and workshops to expand my professional skills. I also attend monthly supervisor with a specially trained counsellor which ensures I am working safely and with the best interests of my clients at heart.

Are you insured?
​Yes I hold public liability insurance.

​Do you belong to a professional body?
​Yes I do. I am a registered member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). Being a member of the BACP means I adhere to the code of ethics set out by the association. This means I will not do anything to cause you any harm. It also means that my training and qualifications are of the required standard. I have also taken an additional test called A Certificate of Proficiency which means I am competent and suitable to be included on the BACP Register.

​​I hope I have managed to answer any questions you may have had. Please get in touch if there is anything else you would like to know, or you would like to book an appointment.
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