Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I ring to make an appointment?

I'll offer you an initial exploratory session which lasts for 60-90 minutes.

When you come for that session, once you feel comfortable, you will be able to share what is concerning you. You will be able to ask questions about how I work and anything else you'd like to know. Later in the session I will ask you what you are hoping to gain from counselling, what outcomes you are hoping for.

Then we can decide together whether you want to come to see me for ongoing counselling. If you do, we will look at the practical issues: day, time, initial number of sessions, cost, missed sessions etc. and arrange the next appointment.

How many sessions will it take?

This varies from person to person and to some extent will depend on the issues raised. Some people can work through their difficulties in 3-4 sessions. Others may find it can take many months. It all depends on what the problem is and also when it first arose. Issues such as childhood abuse can take much longer. You will know when you are ready to end. I usually suggest that we book 3-4 sessions and then review the arrangement regularly.

How often do I come to sessions?

Initially it's important that we meet weekly. This helps to build up a relationship of trust that allows you to feel more confident in sharing your issues. Later on we may agree to meet fortnightly. If you would like one, I can offer a follow-up appointment after we finish meeting regularly.

Will I get upset in the sessions?

Tears can be a natural part of sharing your experiences and can be a helpful release. If you do get upset in a session, I will always try to ensure that you are not "in bits" by the end of the session.

How can I find another counsellor?

Sometimes the type of counselling I offer is not the best one for the difficulties that you are experiencing. The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, www.bacp.co.uk has an online register of Counsellors searchable by counties. Or visit the on-line counselling directory at www.counselling-directory.org.uk.

How do you work as a counsellor?

See the section on Counselling.

Will you want to look at things from my past that scare me?

Only if you feel you want to explore them and feel "safe" enough to share them with me. If your current difficulties don't arise from early experience then it's unlikely that we will explore them. Sometimes though difficulties have arisen from past negative experiences. In this case, exploring them can in itself be a way of releasing the power they have over you-once you feel ready to share them. Then you can begin to move on. You are always in control of what and how much you share.

Will you talk to my GP or others about me?

Confidentiality is very important. It is crucial that you feel safe with me, so I won't usually share anything with your doctor or other professional who's seeing you. There are however some exceptions to this. Sometimes I will encourage you to go to talk to your GP or other health professional to get the extra help that you need. In extreme circumstances, if I think that you or another person is in serious danger, then I will want to talk to an appropriate professional.

If I think a child or children are at significant risk of harm, then I will want to take appropriate action. There are also extreme circumstances (terrorism) that in law I have to report.

If you have a history of serious mental health problems, I may want to ask your GP or Psychiatrist, CPN etc. if they think the type of counselling that I offer is suitable for you and explore alternatives.

What's the most important thing in counselling?

I believe that it's building up the relationship of trust so that you can feel "safe" with me. I'll do everything I can to create a "safe place" for you.