What to expect in Therapy
FAQs
How long are sessions and how often will I attend?
Sessions are 50 minutes long and are usually once a week – wherever possible at the same time each week. Sometimes meeting twice weekly can be beneficial and we discuss that if it feels appropriate. We can also discuss Skype sessions if you are away from base for a while.
The Arrangements - making appointments
When you make contact with me by phone or email, we will talk over what has brought you to seek counselling therapy and make a mutually convenient arrangement to meet and talk about you for an hour. If we feel comfortable with each other and decide together that the service I offer can be helpful for you, we agree a regular appointment time. Ideally we make no changes to the regular pattern of working. I generally offer weekday daytime or evening appointments.
We will discuss whether you are looking for a short term arrangement of up to 20 sessions which might be sufficient to address an immediate issue. More frequently open ended longer term work provides the opportunity to explore the roots of your difficulties more deeply and can provide the space for your personal development. I will offer my professional opinion on what you may derive most benefit from, but the final choice is always yours. Short-term work may be extended if required.
How much will it cost and do I have to pay if I miss a session?
I offer an initial 50 minute assessment free of charge. For all subsequent 50 minute sessions, my fee is £70 each.
If you have to cancel a session I will try to offer an alternative appointment in the same week. If that is not achievable, missed sessions are payable. Mutual commitment is an important aspect of your counselling and I commit to be there for you at the regular appointment time as arranged. I will give prior notice of breaks and strive to inform you of any last minute need to cancel.
How can I rely on you not discussing me with anyone else?
Mutual trust is fundamental to our work together. I work in accordance with the BACP Ethical Principles of Counselling & Psychotherapy and these can be found at www.BACP.co.uk Everything you tell me remains in total confidence, except in exceptional circumstances if –
- I consider either you or another person is at risk of harm
- I am required to divulge information by a Court of Law
In either of the above circumstances, where possible I aim to discuss the matter with you first.
What if you know someone I talk about, or we see each other outside of sessions?
I will make you aware if I think I recognise someone you talk about and I consider there could be a conflict of interest. My professional code of confidentiality and personal therapy leave me able to set aside my own experience of mutual acquaintances so we can focus solely on your relationship with those you mention. You can speak openly about anyone in the sessions, without fear of breach of confidentiality.
We will agree at the outset just how you would like to handle any chance meeting between us outside of counselling.
What if you think you can’t help me?
If either of us feel the service I offer is unsuitable for you, or your availability makes working together unachievable, I will give you the option of referral on to another professional individual or organisation.
How do I take it from here?
Please telephone me in the first instance on 0778 955 4675 to talk through your needs and we can arrange a mutually convenient time to meet. There is no commitment on either side to take counselling beyond the initial meeting. You can also email
