How do I arrange counselling or psychotherapy?

Email or telephone me and we will have a short telephone call to discuss what you would like from counselling. It is important that you feel comfortable with me and this will be an opportunity for you to see if you are happy to progress to a face to face session.

What happens in a counselling session?

The first time you do anything new it can feel daunting. During our first counselling session we will agree what you would like to focus on and what you want to get from our time together. It might be that you want support through a tough time or you might want to reset an unhelpful habit or work on a difficult relationship.

I will explain confidentiality and the way that I work and give you this information to take away in case you would like to refer to it. No two sessions are the same but every session will end with me checking that it was of use to you and agreeing if another session is needed. Counselling is a collaborative relationship driven by you as the client.

Do I need a GP referral for counselling?

You do not need a GP referral for private counselling.

Is my session confidential?

Yes, counselling sessions are confidential. There are certain legal exceptions to confidentiality designed to protect you and others which I will outline during our first session.

How long does it take?

No-one wants to work with an issue longer than necessary so we will only have as many sessions as necessary. I am trained in solution focused brief therapy and sometimes one session is all that is required! Sometime clients like to work on one issue, have a break and then tackle something else. Ultimately it is your choice what you would like to focus on and when you think you are ready to finish.

How does therapy work?

As an integrative therapist, I am qualified to work in a variety of different therapeutic methods including solution focused and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). I tailor my approach to your needs and work in a way that you find helpful.

How is counselling different from executive coaching?

Counselling is more focused on resolving difficulties and supporting you changing a behaviour or pattern. Executive coaching is working with the corporate setting in mind to help leverage your capabilities to the fullest.

How do I know what to look for in a counsellor?

It is very important that you feel a connection with the person you are working with as a trusting, respectful relationship is key when working therapeutically. It is also vital that a counsellor is professional and ethical.

I am qualified and hold full professional indemnity insurance. I am registered and accredited with the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and abide by their code of ethics.

Counselling during Covid-19?

I can offer covid safe 1:1 session in person when the government rules allow this and can also offer online and telephone counselling.