If you are ready to take the next step, here's a bit about what to expect from therapy and counselling. Find out what happens at your first session, work out how long you might need, check out my fees and how to book a session.
The first session
Our first counselling session is a chance to get to know one another, find out if we can work together, and explore the issues that have brought you here. We'll briefly talk a bit about your life history. We will also work out what you would like to achieve and how you know when you've got there.
Ongoing sessions
If, after our initial meeting, you would like to continue, we will fix a regular date and time for your sessions. The exact way we work will be different for each client, tailored to fit with your personality and what you want to achieve.
I always work in a client centred way so our sessions will always be led by you. We will explore your current challenges, pay attention to feelings, take a look at how your previous life experiences play a part in your character and behaviours. We might look at practical ways to alleviate symptoms, such as anxiety or stress, and we may check out how feelings manifest in your body. I will always make sure that the work we do is at your pace and in your time.
How will I feel?
Counselling isn't a quick fix. In order to explore and process the issues that bring you here, you need time. And much of the work of counselling continues between sessions, so it's a good idea to plan some quiet time after therapy for processing and reflection. This is different for every person as we are all unique.
Short term or open ended?
During our first session we can discuss timescales. You may come to counselling with a specific issue to work on, which might indicate a short term contract. Or, you may wish to explore in a deeper way which might entail a longer or open ended style of working. Whichever you choose, we can agree on regular reviews to ensure we are on track.
Fees and timings
I set my fee on a sliding scale of between £50 and £60, depending on your financial circumstances. We can disuss this in more detail at our initial session. I also offer some concessionary places. Sessions are always held at the same time each week, and last 50 minutes.