FAQ
Questions you might have.
It's completely natural to have questions before starting therapy. I hope these help - and if there's anything else on your mind, please don't hesitate to get in touch.
Getting started
The best place to start is simply by getting in touch. I offer a free initial conversation — no commitment, no pressure — where you can ask questions, share a little of what's brought you here, and get a sense of whether we might be a good fit. There's no obligation to continue after that conversation.
Therapy can be helpful for a wide range of experiences — anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, life transitions, or simply a feeling that something isn't right. You don't need to be in crisis to benefit. If you're curious about therapy, that curiosity itself is often a good enough reason to explore it.
The first session is a chance for us to meet and for you to share a little of what has brought you to therapy. There's no pressure to share more than you feel comfortable with. We'll talk about what you're hoping for, how we might work together, and I'll answer any questions you have. You are under no obligation to continue after the first session.
This varies from person to person and depends on what you're bringing to therapy. Some people find that a short course of sessions (6–12) is enough; others prefer to work over a longer period. We'll review how things are going regularly and you are always free to end therapy when you feel ready.
Confidentiality & safety
Yes. Everything you share in sessions is held in strict confidence. I will not share information about you with anyone without your consent. There are a small number of exceptions to this — for example, if I have serious concerns about your safety or the safety of others — but I would always aim to discuss this with you first wherever possible. I will explain the limits of confidentiality fully in our first session.
I keep brief, anonymised notes for my own professional records. These are stored securely and in line with GDPR requirements. You have the right to request access to information I hold about you.
Yes. I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and work within their ethical framework. This means your sessions are held to the highest professional and ethical standards.
Practical matters
Sessions are held in a confidential, peaceful space specifically designed for counselling. Location is discussed based on individual need, so please do get in touch and we can find what works best for you. I also offer online sessions via a secure video platform where appropriate.
I offer a free initial telephone conversation so we can get a sense of whether we might be a good fit — no commitment, no obligation. If you decide to go ahead, your first session is offered at half price. Ongoing session fees are available on request. I also hold a limited number of reduced-rate places for those who would otherwise be unable to access support — please do ask.
Please provide at least 48 hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. Cancellations or requests to reschedule received with less than 48 hours' notice will incur a charge of 50% of the session fee. This policy helps protect the time reserved specifically for you, as it is often not possible to offer the appointment to another client at short notice.
Yes. I offer therapy for children and young people aged 8–17. I work in a gentle, age-appropriate way and collaborate with parents or carers where appropriate, always keeping the young person's wellbeing at the centre. Parental consent is required for clients under 16.
Still have a question?
Please don't hesitate to get in touch. I'm happy to answer any questions before you decide whether to book.
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