Frequently Asked Questions about Counselling
How do I make contact?
The decision to start therapy can be a difficult one and we can often struggle to know where to start. After reading my website if you would like to go ahead and book a first appointment, please visit the contact page where you can find my email address and phone number. I will aim to respond to you within 48 hours.
What should I expect from the first session?
The first session is a chance for us to meet and for you to talk about what has brought you for counselling. It will last for 50 minutes and there is no obligation to continue. During this session I may ask for some basic information and then we can discuss your needs for counselling. This session also gives you time to check whether you feel that I am the right person for you. I believe that the relationship between a counsellor and the client is crucial to successful therapy.
How long and when are the sessions?
If you decided that you would like us to work together the sessions are 50 minutes and I work Monday to Friday.
How often are the sessions?
The sessions are typically on a weekly basis at a time and day agreed by both of us. However, we can discuss your individual needs for frequency of sessions.
Are the sessions confidential?
Often clients can worry about what to talk about, at the risk of not knowing if the information will stay between client and counsellor. All sessions are confidential except in the event that there is a risk of harm to yourself or others who are vulnerable. Confidentiality will be discussed in detail at the first session and any concerns can be discussed.
What does being an Integrative Counsellor mean?
I am an Integrative counsellor, which means that I draw from the Psychodynamic and Person-Centered traditions within counselling. In practice this means that I believe in the importance of establishing a working relationship in which my clients feel safe and listened to, without judgment.
We will work together to make sense of issues and difficult feelings. I am also interested in exploring the influence of childhood and the earliest relationships. Each individual is unique and counselling techniques must be tailored to their individual needs and personal circumstances.