Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is counselling/psychotherapy?
Counselling is a talking therapy where you meet with a dedicated and qualified counsellor in a safe, confidential space to discuss any problems or difficulties you may have encountered. Counselling offers a non-judgemental and accepting environment and I will endeavour to really hear and understand your story.
Do you offer Online sessions?
Yes, I offer both face to face and online Zoom sessions.
Do you give advice?
As a counsellor/psychotherapist I am not here to give advice as my advice might not be right for you. I'm here to work with you to find your own way and solutions.
Is everything in the room confidential?
Everything we discuss in the room is confidential, except if you are going to harm yourself or others then I would have to inform the relevant people.
What is integrative-relational counsellor/ psychotherapist?
Integrative counselling, as the name suggests, is a combined approach to psychotherapy that brings together different elements of specific therapies. Integrative therapists take the view that there is no single approach that can treat each client in all situations.
A 'relational approach' can be defined as: being mindful of our relationship with our client and using opportunities to support clients in forming and sustaining quality relationships.
Do you offer long term or brief therapy?
I offer both brief and long-term therapy depending on the individual needs of clients.
The problems I have haven’t been mentioned here, am I still able to come see you?
Absolutely! Problems or difficulties are very personal to each and every individual and my approach to all of them is with empathy, warmth and compassion. The fundamental aspect of counselling is for you to be able to speak as freely as you're comfortable with and for me to be able to hear and understand what's troubling you in a confidential and safe environment.
Are you insured?
Yes. I have full indemnity and public liability insurance as well as attending regular supervision, in accordance with BACP guidelines.
What makes you different to all the other counsellors?
I am as individual and alike as every other human being out there. What makes us all unique is our own individuality and sense of self and my belief is that there are no two human beings alike in the world, regardless of how similar some of us may appear to be at first. I would recommend trying out several counsellors to gain a feel for who's right for you. Building a relationship with the right counsellor for you, is one of the most important aspects of successful therapy.
What happens if I can't make a session?
If you're unable to make an arranged session, please let me know 48 hours or more in advanced of the arranged session, to avoid the session being charged.
Will you prescribe medication if I need it?
No. Psychotherapists and counsellors should not 'diagnose' medically related conditions and are not able to prescribe medication for clients. This would be the work of a psychiatrist, which is a differently trained field of expertise. If you feel that medication is something you need, then contact your GP in the first instance.
Next Steps....
I have created a page for perspective clients, outlining how my sessions work. Hopefully it will give you all the information you need. If not, please do contact me with any questions you may have.