FAQs

It's completely normal to feel unsure about what to expect from your first counselling experience. You don't need to have had counselling before, and you don't need to know exactly what to say.

Our first session is an opportunity to get to know each other, talk about what's brought you to counselling and begin to think about what you'd like from our work together. I'll explain how counselling works and answer any questions you have.

There's no expectation that you'll have everything figured out from the beginning. We can take things at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

Not at all. You don't need to arrive with a clear idea of what you want to talk about, or even be able to put into words exactly what's wrong.

Sometimes we simply know that we're struggling, feeling stuck or that something doesn't feel right. We can start wherever you are and explore what's going on together.

You are always in control of what you choose to share, and we'll work at a pace that feels right for you.

Sessions are 50 minutes and are typically held weekly. Having regular sessions can provide a consistent space to pause, reflect and explore what's happening for you.

We can talk together about what frequency feels appropriate for you, depending on your circumstances and what you're hoping to get from counselling.

There's no set number of sessions. Everyone's circumstances and reasons for seeking counselling are different, so the length of our work together will depend on your individual needs.

Some people find that a relatively short period of counselling is helpful, while others choose to continue for longer. We'll regularly reflect on how things are going and what feels right for you.

You don't need to make a long-term commitment when you begin.

Yes. I offer counselling both online via Microsoft Teams and face-to-face in Hitchin, Hertfordshire.

Online counselling can be a convenient option if you'd prefer to talk from the comfort of your own home, while face-to-face sessions offer the opportunity to meet in my private therapy room.

We can discuss which option feels most comfortable and appropriate for you.

Your first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and begin to understand what has brought you to counselling.

We might talk about what's been happening for you, what you'd like support with and what you hope counselling might offer. I'll also explain how we will work together and give you the opportunity to ask any questions.

You don't need to prepare anything beforehand. Just come as you are.

Absolutely. I offer a 20-minute introductory call for anyone who would like to talk before deciding whether to begin counselling.

It's a chance to tell me a little about what's brought you here, ask any questions you might have and get a sense of what working together could feel like.

There's no obligation to continue afterwards. Finding a counsellor who feels right for you is important, and the call gives us both an opportunity to see whether I might be the right fit.

You don't need to be certain before getting in touch.

Sometimes we simply know that something isn't quite right, that we're struggling to cope, or that we'd like to understand ourselves or our situation better.

The introductory call can be a good place to start if you're unsure. We can talk about what you're experiencing and whether counselling might be helpful for you.

There's no pressure to make a decision straight away.

What you share with me in counselling is treated with care and kept confidential. Protecting your privacy is an important part of creating a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship.

There are, however, some limits to confidentiality. For example, there may be circumstances where I need to share information to protect you or someone else from serious harm, or where I am legally required to do so. I may also discuss my work with you with my clinical supervisor, while protecting your identity as far as possible.

I will explain confidentiality and its limits with you at the beginning of our work, so you understand how your information will be handled.