Approach: how will we work together?

Counselling/ Psychotherapy starts with an initial consultation session. This is NOT a commitment to ongoing counselling sessions. Rather it provides an opportunity to explore the issue/s that have brought you to counselling and to raise any concerns and expectations you may have. All concerns are handled with sensitivity and understanding in a caring, confidential environment. It provides an opportunity to assess the situation, to ask any questions, and to discuss what might be the best way forward.

At the end of this initial session we may decide that this initial contact was sufficient in itself, or agree on further counselling/ therapy, or you may decide that you need more time to reach a conclusion on where to go from here. Your decision will be respected, whatever it may be and there will be no pressure to commit yourself. If we agree that further sessions may be helpful, you will usually be offered an appointment within 10 days of your initial consultation session.

How many sessions?

This varies, of course, depending on the nature of the problems presented and individual circumstances. Many clients find that they can make sufficient progress within 1– 6 sessions. Others may want to explore solutions for their problems over a period of a few months whilst a few may choose to work more long term and in greater depth .

Sessions last for an hour and clients are generally seen on a weekly basis. However, this is not written in stone and other arrangements may be made to suit individuals' circumstances.

What you can expect

What's it all about?

We all experience problems and challenges in our daily lives from time to time. Often we can deal with them alone or we may seek the help of others who we trust. However, whilst family and friends may be highly motivated to try and help you, they may be too involved. A trained counsellor helps you to see things differently by providing a new perspective and a new understanding. Counselling/ therapy provides an opportunity to work through issues that trouble you in a safe and confidential environment.

It aims to help you understand more about yourself and your relationships so you can change your behaviour and find a way to move forward in a more satifying and constructive way.

Confidentiality

I adhere to the BACP's Ethical Framework for Good Practice in Counselling and Psychotherapy. I treat all information disclosed to me as confidential. There are circumstances (e.g. criminal) where confidentiality cannot be guaranteed. This is explained at the initial consultation.