This may
be the first time you’ve thought about having counselling, or perhaps you have
had counselling in the past. Either way, I’ve answered a few common questions
here so you have additional information about me and how we might work
together. If you have any other questions please don’t hesitate to get in
touch.
How many sessions should I have?
This is up to you. One of the great things about private practice is that we
are able to work this out between us and according to your individual needs and
budget. For some people a handful of sessions to ‘get something out’ are
enough.
Sometimes a problem or an issue might require a longer term approach. I am experienced at working in a short-term
10 -12 blocks of sessions. However, am open to what feels right for you.
How do I pay?
I accept bank transfers.
Do I need to do anything in preparation for our first session?
It’s
absolutely normal to feel unsure and nervous about coming to counselling for
the first time. I won’t set you ‘home work’ or ‘tasks’ prior to meeting unless
this is something we decide together would be beneficial.
In our first session together I will conduct a brief assessment of what has
brought you to counselling so I can understand your needs and what you hope to
gain from engaging with counselling.
We will also look at a written contract together so we both know what we can
expect from one another. This will ensure that our work together is safe and
ethical. I will send you the contract via email before we have our first
meeting so you can have a look at it before the session (if you wish to).
The majority of the session will be about how you wish to use it. I will try to
make it as comfortable as possible for you so you can start to tell me your
story in whatever way feels right to you.
At the end of the session we will take a few moments to conclude and to make
sure you feel safe and grounded to leave the counselling space. We will also
then arrange our future appointments together.
How regular are counselling sessions?
We would normally meet weekly at the same place and same time. This helps
create a structure and a routine that can help you prepare for counselling and
often helps individuals make progress more consistently. However, if for
whatever reason you’re unable to commit to this we should be able to negotiate
a time slot that does work with your routine.
Will you keep what I tell you confidential?
Yes, this
is how I believe we will build trust in our relationship.
There are limitations and exceptions to the confidentially that I would be able
to provide. As a member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and
Psychotherapy) I am bound to their code of ethics and practice.
If you tell me something which leads me to believe that you or another person is at risk of harm I may need to divulge this information. I would usually hope to discuss this with you first and encourage you to take appropriate action.
I attend regular individual supervision to ensure my work is safe and ethical (in line with professional guidelines). This is always done with care to protect your identity and to ensure that I am working to the highest standard to provide the best quality service.
Do you charge for cancelled sessions?
Sometimes things come up. Illness and unexpected commitments that might mean you need to cancel a session.
If you are
unable to attend your session please email me as soon as possible and when
possible at least 48 hours in advance of our session time. If you do not do
this, the full session cost will normally be payable.
If I am unable to make our session for whatever reason then you will not be
charged for the session and I will make it a priority to rearrange a date and
time as soon as possible.
How do I end counselling?
If you choose that you do not wish to continue counselling further that is absolutely ok!
Normally I would suggest that we have an ending session so we can consolidate what has been helpful and help you leave counselling feeling grounded and knowing what other options are out there for you.