What happens at the first session?
I aim to keep things relaxed but, even so, starting counselling can feel quite scary. Our first meeting will be a getting-to-know you session, We can chat about what is going on for you and look at what you may need.
In counselling, the relationship between counsellor and client is key. At the first session we see how well we ‘click’ so we can be sure we work well together.
Can I have counselling online?
Yes. At present I am only offering online sessions, but I plan to start in-person sessions as soon as possible. I use the online platform Doxy.me which is developed to provide a confidential virtual space for therapy to take place.
How many sessions will I need?
This very much depends on what you are bringing to therapy and what your end goals are. We can discuss this more in our first session, and we will review our progress together every 6 weeks, working towards ending the sessions at a time that is right for you.
What issues do you help with?
I can work with issues you are experiencing right now, and with deep seated issues from the past. Some of the areas in which I have experience include:
| Anxiety and Depression | Grief and loss |
| Suicidal thoughts | Low self worth/Poor self esteem |
| Guilt and Shame | Relationship issues |
| Loneliness | Trauma |
| Physical & Emotional Abuse | Sex & Sexuality |
| Domestic abuse | People Pleasing/Assertiveness |
How much do you charge?
I charge £50 for a 50-minute session.
I do offer concessionary prices for people on low incomes and for counselling students.
Please ask about these when you book.
Payment is made by bank transfer at least 24 hours before the session.
Are my sessions confidential?
All sessions will be confidential. There are some legal reasons why I would have to break this confidentiality. For that reason, I will discuss these with you at our first meeting and give you all the information in writing. I follow the BACP ethical guidelines.
What type of therapy do you offer?
I have a first class BSc (Hons) in Psychology and a Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling. As a person-centred therapist I look at the individual needs of every client. This means I can tailor the therapy to meet those needs. I do this by bringing in other methods and theories so that you can get what you need from our sessions. I also have a diploma in Solution Focused Brief Therapy.
What is the BACP?
The BACP is the Pschotherapy Society and the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. It is a profesasional organisation that holds its members to high standards of professional practice and accountability. Therefore, to join the BACP therapists must meet the training and proficiency requirements. Please see or BACP for more information.
What about insurance?
I am fully insured and have a current DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service), formerly known as the CRB, (Criminal Records Bureau) certificate.
Any more questions?
Please feel free to contact me, There is also some more useful information in the blog section of the website.