Frequently Asked Questions

What happens after I contact you about counselling?

We’ll have a brief, informal conversation about any questions you have about counselling or what’s going on for you at the moment. I’ll explain how I work and whether I feel I can support you. If you’re happy to proceed, we’ll discuss your availability and arrange an appointment for an initial counselling session.

What happens in the initial counselling appointment?

The first session is an opportunity for you to share what’s been troubling you, and for me to gain a better understanding of your situation. You can also ask any questions you may have and get a feel for whether I’m the right counsellor to support you going forward.

Are the sessions confidential?

Confidentiality is a key part of building a trusting therapeutic relationship. We will discuss confidentiality in detail during your first session. All sessions are confidential, with a few important exceptions:

• If I believe you are at serious risk of harming yourself or someone else
• If a child or vulnerable adult may be at risk
• If required by law or court order

In such situations, I would always aim to speak with you first before contacting anyone else. In emergencies, or if I’m unable to reach you, I may need to seek advice or support from your GP or emergency services.

For work with children and young people, confidentiality is also maintained. However, if a child discloses something that raises a concern for their wellbeing or safety, I am required to inform the appropriate services, such as the local authority Children’s Services.

How many sessions will I need?

This depends on your individual circumstances. We’ll explore this together in your initial session. Some people benefit from short-term work, while others may find longer-term or open-ended counselling more helpful. Your needs, preferences, and availability will all be taken into account.

What happens if I’m late to a session?

Each session lasts 50 minutes. If you arrive late, your session will still be held for you, but the end time will remain the same to respect scheduling for other clients.