Frequently Asked Questions

What happens after I contact you?

After you contact me I will get back to you as soon as possible, usually within a couple of days. I then arrange an initial 30 minute session with you where I can find out a bit more about why you want to come to counselling, and you can get a feel for me and how I work and if you feel I am the right counsellor for you. If you feel you would like to begin counselling with me after this we will then agree a time which will be your regular appointment each week.

What if I start counselling and I don't like it?

You are free to finish counselling whenever you want. If, after a few sessions, you feel it is not working for you that is fine. What I would ask, however, is that you let me know and this is something we can discuss. It may be that there is something we can address so you feel more comfortable continuing to work with me.

Will you tell people I am coming to counselling?

Sessions are completely confidential and I work according to the BACP ethical framework. I have sessions with a supervisor in which our work together may be discussed in order to monitor my own work and practice with you. The only other time I would break confidentiality would be if I feel there is a risk of harm to either yourself or someone else.

Do I have to tell people I am coming to counselling?

You are free to tell people you are coming to counselling if you wish to. Equally, if you want to keep it private that is also fine - the choice is completely up to you.

What if you see me outside of sessions?

If I see you outside of our sessions I will neither approach you nor make it obvious we know one another. This is something we can always discuss when we start working together if you wish.

I can't afford to come every week - can I have fortnightly sessions?

I understand that coming to counselling is a big financial commitment, particularly at the moment when everything is getting more expensive. However, I am afraid I do not offer fortnightly sessions. I find it is too hard to get into a rhythm with the work and to start to build an effective relationship together. This is something that other counsellors do offer, however, so if you want fortnightly sessions I suggest you continue to make contact with other therapists to see what their policy is on this.

Am I crazy / pathetic / weird for coming to counselling?

Absolutely not. Coming to counselling takes a lot of courage and strength. Committing to working on yourself and exploring your thoughts and feelings is a difficult thing to do. What is weird or crazy about wanting to feel happier in your day to day life? Everyone deserves to live a happy life - counselling just offers you some additional support in working towards this.

What if what I want to say is really, really bad?

It does not matter - counselling is an opportunity for you to be open and honest about your true thoughts and feelings. Prior to being a counsellor I worked for 9 years in the prison service and have 3 years experience of working with counselling clients - I have had people say all kinds of things to me and I assure you I can hear what it is you want to say. However, I remind you that if you say something regarding real serious harm to yourself or someone else I would have to break confidentiality.

Do I need counselling? Other people have it so much worse than me.

It is difficult not to compare our problems with other peoples. But just remember, if your problems are causing you distress or affecting your quality of life then it doesn't matter about other people. If you feel you need additional support then that is the main thing.