providing therapeutic support to individuals, couples and families
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I AM CURRENTLY ONLY OFFERING INDIVIDUAL THERAPY 'ONLINE' AS I AM RELOCATING MY THERAPY ROOM. I HOPE TO START FACE TO FACE SESSIONS AGAIN IN MAY 2024
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The Answers You Need
WHAT IS COUNSELLING?
Counselling falls under the umbrella term ‘talking therapies’ and allows people to discuss their problems and any difficult feelings they encounter in a safe, confidential environment. The term can mean different things to different people, but in general, it is a process people seek when they want to change something in their lives. Psychotherapy is typically a more 'in -depth, long-term process' which focusses on a person's feelings and past experiences.
A counsellor/psychotherapist is not there to sit you down and tell you what to do. Instead, they will encourage you to talk about what's bothering you in order to uncover any root causes and identify your specific ways of thinking. They may then look to create a plan of action to either help you reconcile your issues, or help you to find ways of coping.
HOW CAN COUNSELLINGÂ HELP?
Counselling can help you understand yourself better and the way you think, which will ultimately help you develop a clearer understanding of your problems and help you to move forward. The more armed with information you are, the easier it gradually becomes to navigate your way through any difficulties you are facing, so that eventually you can come out the other side feeling more positive. Counselling can also help you better understand other people's point of view, which can shed light onto the way you interpret words or actions.
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I know that coming to counselling can feel like a very big step and it takes courage. You may be unsure if counselling is right for you and/or your family; the best way to know is to find out more about it. I am very happy to answer any further questions you may have by phone or email
WHERE DOES COUNSELLING TAKE PLACE?
I operate a face to face service from my office near Stow on the Wold, offering a safe, comfortable and private environment. This is my preferred way when working with multiple people in the room. However, I understand that not everyone is local or has the time to travel and I offer session via telephone or online using Zoom /Teams /Skype. Thanks to modern technology, I work with clients all over the UK and further afield.
WHAT DOES COUNSELLING COST?
Sessions are 60 minutes each and my professional fees are:
Individual work is charged at £60 per session;
Couples, Family and Group sessions are £85;
I offer a free initial 30 minute consultation by telephone to establish whether Counselling is right for you and help you to understand what to expect as I understand that often the first steps are always the hardest.
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I accept payment by bank transfer. Payment is taken prior to each session and for missed sessions where appointments have been confirmed. I operate a 24hour cancellation policy, but will remain flexible in rearranging appointments where possible.
HOW MANY COUNSELLING SESSIONS DO I NEED?
This is based on individual need and you are always in control of the number of sessions you have. Short, medium and long term counselling is available. It is helpful to regularly review how you are feeling and whether or not counselling will continue or when an ending might be appropriate. The needs of each individual, couple or family group can vary depending on the complexity and issues being focussed on.
WHEN DOES COUNSELLING TAKE PLACE?
I will do my best to accommodate a convenient time for you to fit in with your life. The sessions can take place at the same time each week/fortnight, but flexibility is available if your working hours or free time is changeable every week. I work during weekdays only and offer daytime and evening appointments.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I MISS A SESSION?
If you have given me 24 hours notice that you will not be attending there is no charge. If you cancel at short notice the full fee is payable. This is because I hold that hour for you and it cannot be filled by anyone else, it is your time.
I'M NERVOUS ABOUT GETTING COUNSELLING, IS THIS NORMAL?
Most people feel nervous and anxious especially on their first visit where everything is new and it can be very emotional. Once I have met and you know where you are coming and where to park this anxiety settles down for most people. Remember you are entering an environment that is safe, warm and confidential. I will do everything possible to put you at your ease.
WHAT IF I STOP COUNSELLING, BUT WANT TO START AGAIN?
If you take a break from counselling and decide to come back at a later date I will try to find you a suitable session time. If I am busy there may be a little delay but I will try my best to see you as soon as I can.
WHAT THERAPY STYLE IS RIGHT FOR ME?
I believe that no one theoretical approach fits for each person, so I work in an Integrative way, carefully using different approaches to suit the individual. The relationship between therapist and client is a very important one, based on trust and mutual respect and how we work can be decided upon together.
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN MY COUNSELLINGÂ COMES TO AN END?
When you feel you are ready to leave counselling we will discuss this together and decide on the best ending for you. I always prefer, whenever possible, that an ending takes place face to face. Some people find endings difficult in life and having a positive experience of an ending can be therapeutic in itself.
IS COUNSELLING NON-JUDGEMENTAL AND CONFIDENTIAL?
I provide a confidential, non-judgemental time and place for individuals, couples and families to explore their feelings and gain a better understanding, awareness of themselves and their relationships.
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All my work is carried out in strict confidence, and before counselling begins, we will agree a ‘contract’ on how we will work together, based on the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP) Ethical Framework
IF WE ARE BOTH LOCAL WHAT HAPPENS IF I WERE TO SEE YOU OUTSIDE OF THE COUNSELLING ROOM?
In order to protect your confidentiality I would not approach or acknowledge you if I were to see you.
OTHER HELP RESOURCES ?
I have collated a list of external website links for you as an addition resource - these are a range of organisations and charities that are able to provide help and support to people with varied issues.
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