FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Beginning counselling can be a difficult or confusing experience and often clients will have questions about what they should expect when beginning therapy.
Is Counselling right for me?
Everybody is different and unique but I believe that everybody can benefit from counselling. What's important is whether you think you are ready to invest the time in yourself and be challenged by exploring different viewpoints and new ways of thinking, in order to make positive changes in your life that will hopefully begin to ease your problems.
What will happen at my first appointment?
During our first session together I will try to make you feel welcome and comfortable. I recognise that you may be nervous and unsure about what is expected. We will use this time to discuss your reasons for attending counselling and what you would like to gain from it. Together, we will take it step by step and there will be no pressure on you to tell me anything until you are ready.
How many sessions will I need?
This would be something we would decide together during our initial session. The amount of sessions would depend on what your needs are.
People come to counselling for many different reasons, some may have a specific reason and focus for our work together, others may require a open-ended approach due to the cause of distress. In both cases we would have regular reviews to ensure that our work was continuing to meet your needs.
How long is each session?
Our sessions together will last for 50 minutes. During our initial meeting we will agree a regular day and time for our weekly session. This gives you time to reflect between sessions without losing the momentum of change.
How confidential are our sessions?
I will treat all contact with you and information disclosed to me as confidential. There are certain legal exceptions and issues relating to the serious risk of harm to yourself or others. I will clarify these exceptions with you during our first meeting.
In line with the BACP ethical code of practice I undertake professional supervision of my work. As such any information my supervisor receives is also treated as confidential.
What if I change my mind after I start?
For some people it may just not be the right time, or perhaps they start and simply have a change of heart. The choice will be yours, but there will be opportunities to review and assess our work along the way, to ensure that the service you are receiving and what you are experiencing is benefiting your on-going needs. If you choose to stop attending sessions, for any reason, before the agreed amount, I will always encourage a final ending session. Endings are an important part of counselling work, and have your wellbeing and best interests in mind.
Don’t worry if it is still not completely clear, when we first meet you will have the chance to ask any questions or voice any concerns you may have.
