Frequently Asked Questions
- How long do sessions last and how much do the cost?
Sessions are always a therapeutic hour of 50 minutes long and cost £35 ph. The initial session is offered at a reduced cost of £20 to provide you with a choice about entering into counselling.
- How often will I need to come?
Sessions are usually weekly to begin with, and then some clients are ready to engage fortnightly or more to allow process time and to prepare for the end of therapy. (Appointments for children are usually weekly).
- How many sessions will I need?
Usually six sessions are agreed, with a review after four. This creates space for the client to consider how far they have come towards achieving their goals and addressing their issue.
- What if I want to stop coming?
There is no pressure to complete the set amount of sessions, however I recommend to all my clients that they attend a final ending session to effect closure of the relationship and reflect on their journey so far.
- What happens next if I decide to go ahead?
An initial appointment will be made where we can discuss areas/goals for work and provide you with an opportunity for choice about your therapy.
- Will anybody else know what I have discussed in my session?
No - the process of counselling is completely confidential. There are however professional boundaries and limitations to this, of which a breach may be necessary in certain circumstances. Full details of this will be explained during appointment.
- How do I know how my child is doing in counselling and when they are ready to end?
As in adult work, the relationship between counsellor and child is confidential, this being the basis for trust and freedom for exploration of feelings. The opportunity to review presents a time for all parties to reflect so far, respecting client confidentiality at all times and creates a window for preparation to end.
- Is there any written record kept of my sessions?
Only factual written summaries are completed once the session has ended and these are stored in a confidential, locked area with all details remaining totally anonymous at all times. All files are stored in line with current Data Protection legislation.
- Is there much flexibility in booking appointments?
It is preferred to maintain regular appointments as this assists the building of emotional safety whilst therapy is ongoing. However, I appreciate client's changing schedules and am happy to work with varying needs.
