What to expect from counselling

Starting counselling can feel like a big step, particularly if you haven't had therapy before or you're unsure what to expect. You don't need to know exactly what you want to talk about or have everything figured out before you begin.

Below, I've outlined what you can expect from the initial consultation and your first session, how we can work together, and some of the practical details of counselling with me.

• Free initial call: 15 minutes

• Sessions: 50 minutes

• Frequency: Weekly or fortnightly

• Format: Online or telephone - Face to face coming soon.

• Fee: £55

• Therapy: Short-term or longer-term

• No pressure: The initial call isn't a counselling session and there's no obligation to continue

At a Glance

Your First Step

Free Initial Telephone Consultation

I offer a free 15-minute initial telephone consultation before you decide whether you'd like to begin counselling. This gives us a brief opportunity to talk about what has brought you to therapy, ask any questions you may have and get a sense of whether working together feels right for you.

The consultation isn't a counselling session, and you don't need to prepare anything in advance. There's no pressure or obligation to continue afterwards.

Your first counselling session

The first session is an opportunity for us to begin getting to know one another and for you to talk about what has brought you to counselling. I'll explain a little about how I work and we'll take some time to discuss the practical aspects of working together.

We'll also review the relevant documentation and therapeutic agreement, so that we have a clear and comfortable foundation for our work.

You don't need to arrive knowing exactly what you want to talk about. We can begin wherever feels most appropriate for you.

There is no expectation that you have to decide everything straight away. The important thing is that you feel comfortable with the therapeutic relationship and with how we might work together.

What Will Therapy Be Like?

There isn't a set way you have to "do therapy" with me. I won't expect you to follow a fixed programme or arrive with a list of things you need to achieve.

I'm interested in your experience as an individual and in what feels important to you. Some sessions may involve talking through something that's happened, while at other times we might pay more attention to how something feels emotionally or physically, or explore patterns that you are beginning to notice.

We'll work collaboratively and allow the therapy to develop around you, rather than expecting you to fit into a particular model or approach.

Online & Telephone Counselling

Short-Term & Long-Term Therapy

Counselling doesn't have to be a long-term commitment. Some people find that a shorter period of focused support is helpful, while others benefit from having longer-term space to explore things more deeply.

We can discuss what feels appropriate for you and review this together as your needs change. There is no expectation that you commit to a fixed number of sessions from the outset.

Fees & Payment

Free 15-minute initial telephone consultation

£55 — Individual online or telephone counselling session (50 minutes)

Concessions are available for those on low incomes. Please contact me for further details.

Payment is required by bank transfer at least 24 hours prior to your appointment. If payment is not received within this timeframe, the session will be cancelled.

I kindly ask for at least 24 hours' notice if you need to cancel a session; otherwise, the full fee will be payable. I understand, however, that unforeseen circumstances can arise, and I will always approach such situations with care and compassion.