Common questions

Rock formations on a beach with boats in the distance.

What is a typical counselling session like?

This is talking therapy and the session is your space to bring anything which feels important to talk about. Sometimes clients like to have thought in advance about what they wish to talk about but often the most valuable work is done when clients have nothing in mind and allow the session to find its own path. I help guide the session, bringing curiosity and reflection and helping you make important insights and connections. I also manage the time and privacy of the setting, ensuring our work remains within a safe and confidential boundary.

Do you only offer weekly counselling?

In my experience weekly counselling is most beneficial for clients as there is less gap in-between sessions and therefore more continuity in the work. Sometimes towards the end of the work we may meet fortnightly or agree a different frequency.

How will I build trust in you to be able to open up?

This can take time. The counselling space is one of the most intimate settings. We work at a pace that suits you and I am always mindful about not opening up too much too quickly as this can leave you feeling vulnerable. After building our relationships, clients often say to me that they’ve told me things they have never said to anyone else.

Is working online as effective as seeing you in person?

Both modes of counselling are effective and the setting is more about your preference and convenience.

Will you offer me any advice, for example if I’m feeling anxious?

I may offer suggestions on some techniques which might be helpful to you but I am never prescriptive. These are suggestions only and you are able to decide what you find the most helpful.

When will I know if it’s the right time to end?

You will have seen an improvement in the symptoms and difficulties which caused you to come to counselling and in my experience you will know when it is the right time for us to end. We try to end in a planned way so that we have time to discuss the work and ensure any changes are embedded for you.