Frequently Asked Questions
What happens at our free initial 30 minutes session?
During our initial consultation, I would go through a counselling assessment to see if we would be a good fit to work together. We would then discuss any desired outcomes that you would like us to work towards. We would then agree to meet at a mutually convenient time and day each week.
What happens if you feel that we are not a good fit?
If after our initial thirty minute session you or I do not feel that we could work together for whatever reason, then I would either be able to sign post you on to another therapist or agency that we both felt may be better able to meet your needs.
What happens at our first counselling session?
At our first session I would go through our working agreement to ensure that you understood the way that we would work collaboratively and to ensure that you had a good understanding of confidentiality, supervision and all things that are counselling related, together with answering any other questions that you may have.
How much does counselling cost?
An initial thirty-minute session is free, with all subsequent sessions costing £40 which is payable either prior to the session or on the day. I do offer a discounted rate to individuals with disabilities and their family members, and am currently also offering a reduced rate to anyone working for the NHS, Keyworkers and anyone in the teaching profession. Please email me for details.
What happens if you can't make the session?
Sometimes life and circumstances can get in the way, but if for any reason you are unable to make our session then please let me know as soon as possible via email or by leaving a message on my voicemail. If you are able to give me at least twenty-four hours' notice, then you would not need to pay. If you do not let me know until on the day, then there would be a cancellation fee of £20, unless there were extenuating circumstances.
What happens if I do not notify you that I am unable to attend a session?
If you do not notify me at all that you are unable to attend our session, then I would expect full payment of £40 again unless there were extenuating circumstances.
How long would I need to have counselling for?
Counselling is very individual, and client's come to counselling for different reasons. Sometimes counselling may continue for a period of months depending on the desired outcome of the client, but as a client I give you the autonomy to decide when you feel that it is the appropriate time to end our sessions.
Do I belong to a professional body?
Yes, I am a member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), and I work within their ethical framework. The ethical framework contains principles and a code of ethics to ensure that I work to a professional standard to ensure that I am offering you the best service.
What if I have a complaint?
If for any reason you were unhappy with the service that I offer, I would hope that you would feel comfortable enough to be able to discuss this with me in the first instance, but the BACP do have a complaints procedure and are there for your protection and mine.
