Question 1

Why speak to a Counsellor rather than friends and family?

Accepted Answer

Talking about your problems with people you know and who care about you can be incredibly beneficial, however often others have their own opinions, agendas and advice to give you.
Speaking to someone who is impartial, in a safe counselling space, can remove fear of judgement or ‘getting it wrong’, allowing you the freedom and time to explore your thoughts and feelings, in a way that you can make sense of them.

Question 2

What is counselling?

Accepted Answer

Counselling is an effective way to help relieve a variety of symptoms including but not limited to; stress, anxiety or depression which can arise for a variety of reasons.
 
It involves means working with a Counsellor on a one to one basis to help you to explore the difficulties you are experiencing in a safe, non-judgemental environment.
 
This is not about giving you advice or telling you what to do. It is about supporting you and empowering you to determine what the best way forward is for you.

Question 3

Is counselling right for me?

Accepted Answer

Counselling can help with a wide variety of issues or problems and Counsellors work in many different ways. In order to determine if counselling with me is right for you, book in for a free consultation and we can discuss your needs and/or expectations.

Question 4

How do I get started with my counselling?

Accepted Answer

You can book a consultation in the following ways:
Follow the BOOK NOW link on this website
Telephone
Email

Question 5

How many sessions do I need?

Accepted Answer

The number of sessions a person has is individual to them. As a general guide I recommend a minimum six sessions however this will be dependent on what you want to bring to therapy and will be discussed with you at your initial consultation. This is also reviewed at stages throughout your counselling.

Question 6

Will my sessions be kept confidential?

Accepted Answer

Confidentiality is vital within a counselling relationship and every possible step will be taken to maintain this.
 
Any notes taken by your Counsellor will not identify you and will be processed in accordance with the latest Data Protection legislation.
 
To ensure Counsellors are working ethically, they must undergo supervision. This may involve the Counsellor discussing your case, however no identifying information will be disclosed.
 
The only time your confidentiality may be breached is in a situation where the Counsellor is required by law to do so. Where possible this would be discussed with you in advance.

Question 7

What is the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)?

Accepted Answer

The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy is the professional association for members of the counselling professions in the UK. They support this profession by  providing a robust framework to ensure the profession follows and adheres to the highest possible standards that protect individuals seeking therapy.

Question 8

What does ‘ethical practice’ mean?

Accepted Answer

As a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy I adhere to the key principles within the Ethical Frameworks. Further information on this can be found on the BACP website using the following link:
https://www.bacp.co.uk/

Question 9

What is counselling supervision?

Accepted Answer

According to the BACP, Supervision is “essential to how practitioners sustain good practice throughout their working life.” (BACP, 2018). Supervision provides Counsellors with professional guidance and support and helps ensure they are working effectively and ethically, in order to ensure the service being offered to clients is optimal.

Frequently asked questions