Frequently Asked Questions

General Information

Q1

What issues can you help with?

I support clients with a wide range of issues, such as:

Anxiety
Depression
Low self-esteem
Relationship difficulties
Stress and overwhelm
Grief and loss
Life transitions
Trauma

My core approach is person-centred counselling, which means you are at the heart of the process — your experiences, feelings, and goals guide our work. I also integrate techniques from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) where helpful, allowing us to explore how your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours are connected and to work on practical strategies for change.

Q2

Do I need to know which approach is right for me?

No. You don’t need to have any prior knowledge of therapy styles. I’ll tailor our sessions to your needs, and we’ll work at a pace that suits you.

Q3

How long is each session?
Each session lasts approximately 50 minutes.

Q4

How many sessions will I need?
This varies for each person. Some clients find a few sessions helpful, while others prefer longer-term support. We’ll regularly review your progress together.

Q5

Do I need a referral from my GP?
No. You can self-refer and contact me directly.

Q6

Do you offer an introductory session?
Yes. I offer a free introductory session lasting up to 30 minutes. This is an opportunity for us to meet, talk about what brings you to counselling, and explore how I can support you. There’s no pressure — it’s simply a chance for you to decide whether I’m the right fit for you.

Contracting and Client Paperwork

Q7

What is a counselling contract, and why is it important?
Before beginning ongoing sessions, we’ll agree on a counselling contract. This is a clear, mutual agreement outlining the practical and ethical aspects of our work — including confidentiality, session fees, boundaries, and cancellation policy. It helps ensure transparency and builds the foundation for a safe working relationship.

Q8

What personal information do I need to provide?
I’ll ask you to complete a brief client intake form, which typically includes:

Your contact details
Emergency contact (used only in exceptional circumstances)
Brief health history (if relevant)
A Core 10 form (to support clinical understanding)
Consent to therapy and agreement to privacy/data protection terms

Your information is treated with the utmost care and stored securely in line with GDPR and professional ethical standards.

Q9

How is my personal information protected?
I am registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO). All personal information is stored securely and kept confidential. I comply fully with GDPR regulations and adhere to professional standards for data protection. My full privacy policy will be shared at the beginning of our work together.

Appointments and Availability

Q10

How do I book a session?
You can book a session by phone or email. Feel free to get in touch to ask any questions.

Q11

Do you offer online or virtual sessions?
Yes. I offer online sessions via Teams, Zoom, or FaceTime — whichever works best for you.

Q12

What are your working hours?

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday: 9.00am–8.00pm

Thursday: 6.00pm–8.00pm

Q13

How soon can I get an appointment?
I have good availability and can usually offer appointments within a few days.

Fees and Payments

Q14

What are your fees?
£50.00 per 50 minute session. The introductory session is free.

Q15

Do you offer reduced rates?
Yes. I offer concessions for students and counselling trainees — please enquire for availability.

Q16

How can I pay for sessions?
Payment can be made via bank transfer or cash.

Q17

What if I need to cancel or reschedule?
If you are unable to attend a session, I kindly ask for at least 24 hours’ notice. As the venue requires advance notice a £20 fee will apply for cancellations made with less than 24 hours’ notice.

For very short-notice cancellations or missed appointments without contact the full session fee may apply.

Q18

Can I use health insurance to cover the cost?
I am currently not affiliated with any insurance providers.

Confidentiality and Ethics

Q19

Is counselling confidential?
Yes. Everything shared in our sessions is treated as confidential. The only exceptions are where there is a risk of serious harm to you or others, or if required by law. I will explain this fully in our first session.

Q20

Are you qualified?
Yes. I hold a First-Class Honours Degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy, following five years of professional training.

My qualification enables me to offer person-centred therapy and integrate CBT techniques where appropriate.

Q21

Are you a registered counsellor?
Yes. I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). This means I have met their professional standards for training and practice, and I work in line with their Ethical Framework. I also engage in regular supervision and ongoing professional development to ensure my practice is safe, ethical, and effective.