How it works
The first steps when finding a therapist can be confusing. Where to look? What style do I need? This is why I offer a 15 minute free of charge phone call to ask as many questions as you like and get a feel for the way I work. The relationship is the most important part of counselling, therefore making sure you feel comfortable with the therapist you choose is vital.
What can I expect from a session?
If you decide to move to the next step, we’d arrange a mutually agreed time for our sessions together and take it from there. The first session is more fact finding - we’d spend time getting to know each other and I would ask more questions than I normally would in a session. I’d ask things about you - your hobbies, job, family, living situation.
Our sessions and the agenda is all yours. It can be a mixture of picking up where we left off last time, discussing the burning topics on your mind, reflecting on the past, working through issues and patterns. Whatever we discuss that day, it will be done confidentially and in line with what your aims are.
Is there homework?
No, I do not give out homework. Building tools and coping strategies is a part of our work, therefore I sometimes suggest exercises to try or particular books I’ve found interesting, however there is never an expectation these need to be completed. Therapy is just 1 hour of your week, so I often find those who get the most out of therapy engage in our work even outside of the sessions, whether that’s practicing the skills we’ve discussed, trying something new to break old habits, or getting braver with communication.
Is there a ‘couch’?
In my opinion, counselling works best when you feel connected to the person you are talking to. That’s why, in my therapy room, there is no ‘couch’. There is no sitting in silence for the whole session. There is no coldness. I provide space for reflection, but will never let you sit in shame or your loneliness. We are two equal humans, sitting opposite or walking alongside.
How many sessions will I need?
I would normally recommend at least 6 sessions to start with, to give us the chance to build up a relationship that is trusting. However you are not obliged to stay for any length of time. Some clients will get what they need in 6 sessions, whilst others may want to continue for several months or years - it’s what feels right for you.
What to expect when our time together ends?
My hope is that through our work together, whether that’s 6 weeks or 6 months, you will leave with better understanding of self, some growth and some hope. Whilst therapy isn’t magic - there is no magic wand to make things disappear - my experience has been that clients leave with a greater sense of peace, less distressed and with a renewed hope for the future.
What is online counselling?
Online counselling is not a second best option - research shows online counselling is just as effective as face to face, and can often be a preferred choice for many with busy schedules or who prefer to do sessions from the comfort of their own home. We meet for sessions on Google Meet, with or without video, but never recorded.
Is it confidential?
Regardless of the method we use for our work together, it is always confidential. Trust is a vital part of the therapeutic relationship, and I take that privilege very seriously. The spaces we will meet in are all private and my notes are stored securely.