FAQs
What brings people to counselling?
People come to counselling for many reasons. Our busy, modern lives are filled with challenges. Sometimes life situations feel like too much to cope with and we feel like we can’t resolve our emotional or psychological problems on our own. You may have suffered a loss or separation, become anxious or ill, or be struggling in your relationships with others. You may be looking for a better understanding of yourself, your wants and needs, or want to develop your self-esteem. Whatever your struggles, counselling represents an opportunity for you to share, explore and grow.
What can counselling do for me?
Person-centred counselling offers a therapeutic relationship that can support you in discovering more about yourself. In a non-judgmental, empathetic, and safe relationship, you can talk about your struggles and examine them from all sides. Counselling can provide an environment in which, in the absence of the threat of judgment, you can connect with how you truly feel, explore what you want from life, and grow to meet the challenges you face.
Does person-centred counselling incorporate other types of therapy?
As a person-centred counsellor, I believe in your ability to change and grow. Clients have described feeling a ‘vibe’, a felt sense that they have found someone trustworthy and understanding, with whom they can work. Working together towards your goals at a pace and direction of your choosing is a key aspect of my practice. Person-centred counselling can incorporate elements from other modalities such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) or Gestalt therapy, and this can help provide you with tools and strategies for facing your problems. However, person-centred counselling may not be suitable for all kinds of presentations. For example, a client requiring time-sensitive support for a phobia of flying may be better served by being referred to a specialist CBT practitioner. Your particular needs can be discussed.
During the free consultation we can decide together if your needs may be better met by another service. If this turns out to be the case this is also something I may be able to assist you with.
What can counselling do for me?
Person-centred counselling can provide you with time, space, and attention to discuss your issues and process your emotions. Going at your own pace, you can explore your difficulties in a warm, safe, and caring environment. I will not judge you but rather help you really connect with your true thoughts and feelings. Counselling can help to empower you to address your problems, can develop self-awareness and self-understanding, cultivate resilience and help you to recognise your own resources for living a richer more fulfilling life.
How long does it take?
There are no hard and fast rules in terms of duration. Some people get what they need from counselling in just a few sessions, others prefer medium or long term support. This depends on your experience of counselling and your needs and goals. I offer regular opportunities to review our progress toward your goals, and you are free to discontinue counselling or seek alternative support as you see fit. Open communication is a key feature of counselling and honest discussion is hugely important in ensuring your needs are being met. I can support you through signposting or referral to other services should we decide this would be helpful.
What else do I need to know?
Because counselling can involve discussing difficult things and experiencing challenging emotions, counselling can sometimes make us feel worse before we feel better. It is important to still attend counselling and discuss these feelings with me as this can be very therapeutically beneficial. Counselling is a two-way relationship for the benefit of you, the client. It is a process and can be challenging. It can require commitment and bravery to be successful as well as exploring parts of your life or experience that you have rarely or never talked about. I am committed to listening, supporting, and honouring that bravery.
What if I am late or miss an appointment?
I understand that things come up and sometimes you may be running late. Please still attend. As I have other commitments this may mean a shorter session, but attending regularly can be very beneficial allowing for continuity and ongoing progress to be made.
In the event you need to miss a session, I do ask that you provide as much notice as possible. If you miss an appointment and have not notified me you will still be charged for the session. If you provide 48 hours' notice you will not be charged for the missed session.