f.a.q.s

Do I need counselling?

Ultimately only you can decide if this is the right time for you to enter into counselling.  It is always your decision to start, continue or stop therapy.   You should feel confident to discuss this with your therapist at any time.

How does online Counselling differ from face-to-face?

There are many benefits to working online and some considerations, I recommend we have a conversation to discuss how it might work and how comfortable you might feel using this medium.  Here are some of the benefits:

•    No need to travel as you can be in the comfort of your own home.

•    You can work with a Counsellor from anywhere in the country, giving you more choice and anonymity; this can sometimes make it easier to disclose difficult subject matter.

Is it completely confidential?

Yes - what you tell me in our sessions will remain between us only. In your initial session I will explain to you about confidentiality as there are two rare exceptions, but these relate to my responsibilities under Safeguarding legislation and are only in place for your own safety and the safety of others. 

Are you Insured and accountable to anyone?

Yes, I am insured as a psychotherapist, I have regular supervision with an experienced counsellor/supervisor.  All counsellors should have regular supervision.  The supervision ensures I am balancing my own self care in order to best support you. My supervisor will also offer an external perspective on the way I am working to ensure my continued good practice. 

I am also a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) as a registered member I adhere to the BACP Ethical framework, https://www.bacp.co.uk/media/3103/bacp-ethical-framework-for-the-counselling-professions-2018.pdf

Do we have a contract?    

We do agree a contract at the start of our work, this is purely to ensure we have a shared understanding of the intention of the sessions and your intended outcome.  It also sets out how we will deal with cancellations, confidentiality and safeguarding responsibilities.  We talk through all of this at the extended first session.  You are under no obligation to continue counselling and you can choose to stop at any time.  We can review and end our work at any session.

How many sessions would I need?

Some counsellors suggest a minimum number of sessions, when contracting.  I have no set minimum or maximum number of sessions.  As a very general rule of thumb, people tend to have between 6 and 20 sessions, but you may only require one or two sessions.

Some people choose to have a regular appointment, say once a month as part of their mental health self care plan.