Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions About Counselling
Starting counselling can bring up lots of questions. Below are answers to some of the questions people commonly ask before beginning therapy. If you cannot find the information you are looking for, please feel free to get in touch.
What Is Counselling?
Counselling provides a safe, confidential, and supportive space to explore your thoughts, feelings, experiences, and challenges. It offers an opportunity to gain greater self-awareness, process difficult emotions, develop coping strategies, and work towards meaningful change.
Everyone's reasons for seeking counselling are different, and there is no right or wrong reason to reach out for support.
What Can Counselling Help With?
Counselling may help with a wide range of difficulties, including:
Anxiety and worry
Panic attacks
Depression and low mood
Trauma and the impact of past experiences
Relationship difficulties
Bereavement and loss
Stress and burnout
Low self-esteem and confidence
Life transitions and change
Emotional overwhelm
Workplace difficulties
Personal development and self-exploration
You do not need a diagnosis to access counselling.
What Is Trauma-Informed Counselling?
Trauma-informed counselling recognises that difficult life experiences can have a lasting impact on how we think, feel, relate to others, and experience the world around us.
Symptoms such as anxiety, panic attacks, feeling constantly on edge, difficulties trusting others, low self-worth, emotional numbness, or people-pleasing can sometimes be linked to unresolved trauma.
A trauma-informed approach prioritises safety, collaboration, empowerment, and working at a pace that feels right for you.
Do I Need To Talk About Everything Straight Away?
No.
You are never expected to share anything before you feel ready. Counselling is your space, and we will work at a pace that feels safe and manageable for you.
Building trust is an important part of the counselling process.
Is Counselling Confidential?
Yes.
Everything discussed in counselling is treated confidentially and in accordance with professional and ethical standards.
There are some limited circumstances where confidentiality may need to be broken, such as where there is a serious risk of harm to yourself or others, concerns relating to the safety of a child or vulnerable adult, or where disclosure is required by law.
These limits will be discussed with you before counselling begins and you can see more about this on the privacy notice page
How Long Are Counselling Sessions?
Individual counselling sessions are typically 50 minutes long.
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
There is no set number of sessions that is right for everyone.
Some people attend counselling for a short period to work through a specific issue, while others choose longer-term support to explore more complex or longstanding difficulties.
We will regularly review your progress and discuss your needs throughout our work together.
Do You Offer Online Counselling?
Yes.
Online counselling is available across the UK using a secure video platform. Many people find online counselling convenient, flexible, and just as effective as face-to-face therapy.
What Do I Need For Online Counselling?
You will need:
A reliable internet connection
A computer, laptop, tablet, or smartphone
A private space where you will not be interrupted
A comfortable environment where you feel able to talk openly
Headphones can also help improve privacy.
Do You Offer Face-to-Face Counselling?
Please see the current services page for details of available face-to-face counselling locations.
What Happens During The First Appointment?
The first appointment provides an opportunity to discuss what has brought you to counselling, explore what support you are looking for, and ask any questions you may have.
It is also a chance for us to consider whether we feel like a good fit to work together.
What If I Feel Nervous About Starting Counselling?
Feeling nervous about counselling is completely understandable and very common.
Many people feel uncertain before their first session. You do not need to know exactly what to say or where to begin. We can work together to explore what feels important to you and help you feel as comfortable as possible.
How Much Does Counselling Cost?
Current counselling fees can be found on the Fees page.
If you have any questions about fees or payment arrangements, please get in touch.
How Do I Book An Appointment?
You can book an initial consultation through the website or contact me directly using the details provided on the Contact page.
Still Have Questions?
If there is anything you would like to ask that is not covered here, please feel free to get in touch. I will be happy to answer any questions you may have and help you decide whether counselling feels right for you.