Question 1

How do I know I need Counselling/psychotherapy?

Accepted Answer

It may be that you have a sense that something is not quite right for you and this has led you to search for a counsellor/therapist.   I am glad you are here, and I hope that by checking out my website you gain some insight whether counselling and/or therapy is right for you.   Your instinct is a great source of information.
 
Please contact me via email or phone if you have any questions and/or want to have a short talk about your difficulties.  If I am not able to support you at this current time, I will hopefully be able to offer alternative options.

Question 2

What’s the difference between counselling and psychotherapy?

Accepted Answer

Counselling is often short-term, focusing on immediate challenges like workplace stress, moving home, or relationship breakups. Psychotherapy, on the other hand, tends to be longer-term and delves deeper. It helps you understand your way of being in the world, exploring patterns and adaptations that might be holding you back from a fulfilling life. Together, we can uncover these patterns and work towards meaningful change.

Question 3

What difficulties can counselling/psychotherapy help with?

Accepted Answer

People seek counselling and therapy for numerous reasons; ending of a relationship,  stress at work and/or home, overwhelmed with life and not sure why, overcoming an abusive relationship, feeling lost with themselves, depressed or anxious, loss and bereavement, childhood trauma,  challenges that parenting can bring, divorce, separation...
 
I work relationally which means I will support you to explore whatever your difficulties may be with in a safe, trusting, therapeutic relationship.    Take a look at the areas I have a particular interest in and don’t worry if I haven’t mentioned the area of your difficulty, contact me and let’s chat, see if I can offer you the support you need.

Question 4

How long should I expect to have to continue counselling?

Accepted Answer

That is a difficult question to answer without knowing you and your difficulty.  Sometimes people will find what they only need a few sessions.  What I can say is that the length of time tends to depend on what you are hoping to get from working together, the depth of understanding you wish to have and of course what the difficulty is that you are experiencing e.g. exam stress or childhood trauma.   I have some clients that continue to come once they have resolved their difficulties, perhaps once a month, as they view it as a way of looking after their wellbeing in a similar way to regularly going to the gym.

Question 5

How long will I need to continue counselling?

Accepted Answer

The length of counselling varies for everyone and depends on your unique situation. Some people find a few sessions are enough to address their concerns, while others may benefit from longer-term support. It often depends on what you hope to achieve, the depth of understanding you're seeking, and the nature of the challenges you're facing—whether it's exam stress or childhood trauma. Some clients choose to continue with occasional sessions even after resolving their main difficulties, viewing it as a way to maintain their overall wellbeing, much like going to the gym regularly.

Question 6

What happens in the first session?

Accepted Answer

This may be your first experience of counselling or therapy, you may feel a little anxious or nervous. You may feel reassured if we have spoken on the phone before you arrive for your first session. I remember going to therapy for the first time, how nervous I felt, not knowing what to expect.
 
Some people like to look around and familiarise themselves with the room, others like to talk straight away, whatever is your way of being, you can be assured of a warm welcome.     
During the first session, I will tell you a bit about myself and how I work. Trust your instinct, it is important that you feel comfortable being with me and my way of working.   
 
When you are ready, we will begin to explore what your expectations are, any relevant background information and I will ask some questions e.g. what your occupation is, are you in a relationship etc. This is to help me get an overview of your life and your difficulties that have brought you to counselling.

Question 7

How are your sessions adapted to ensure safety during Covid?

Accepted Answer

Your safety is my priority, especially during Covid. I offer various ways of working to ensure you feel secure, including online, telephone, outdoor, and face-to-face sessions (when appropriate). I closely monitor guidelines from UKCP and my insurers to adapt to any changes. Please reach out to discuss the most suitable option for you.

Frequently Asked Questions