How do I know I have chosen the right counsellor for me?

 

The first initial session will allow time for us to work together to explore your reasons for coming to counselling and allow you the opportunity to see if you would like to continue with the sessions and if you feel they would be of use to you. You are under no obligation to decide within the first session and can contact me at a later stage once you have thought things over.

 

How often would I need to attend and how many sessions would I need?

 

The majority of clients decide they would like weekly sessions as this enables continuity whist still allowing enough time between sessions to process thoughts and feelings around whatever they are exploring. Often towards the end of a course of therapy, sessions can be booked fortnightly or even monthly, whichever you decide. The number of sessions you attend is completely your decision. Some clients find they only need 1-2 sessions and others find they would prefer longer term work. The number of sessions can be open ended or you may decide you would like a series of 6 for example, please see my contact page for the list of counselling session fees.

 

What does Confidentiality mean?

 

Anything that is discussed during the session stays between us at all times. I have supervision of my counselling work where some content of the sessions may be talked about but my client's identity is never revealed. However there may be some situations, if you were in danger of harming yourself or someone else, that I may feel unable to hold confidentiality. If this were the case, I would discuss my course of action with my client beforehand.

 

Is there anything I won't be able to talk about?

 

Anything you decide to talk about will be accepted and heard in a non-judgmental way. It is completely up to you what you decided to talk about in your sessions and we will work at your chosen pace. The sessions will be led by you and you will not be put under any pressure to go in any particular direction.

 

Is it true that counselling will make me feel worse once I start talking about things. Is this likely to happen?

 

The counselling process will allow you time to explore all aspects of your life and feelings, freely and openly at your own pace in a way that is often not possible with people close to you in your life. Difficult feelings such as anxiety, embarrassment, guilt and shame can become very intense when they are not expressed and when these can be explored in a safe, supportive environment often they become easier to understand and handle and help you to move on. Qualified counsellors attend and complete rigorous suitable training in order to be able to accompany clients through this process.

 

What will happen if I miss a session or cannot attend?

 

I appreciate a call if you are unable to attend a pre-booked session with at least 24 hours notice. Appointments which are missed or cancelled without notice may incur the session fee.