Question 1

Who do you work with?

Accepted Answer

I work with individuals, not couples. I do see individuals who are experiencing relationship problems and some people may undertake couple’s counselling either alongside or after individual counselling. I work with adults and young people 11+ years

I am not a crisis service - if you are at risk it is advisable to contact your GP or the Samaritans.

Question 2

Do you work face to face or online?

Accepted Answer

I do both face to face and online counselling.

I work face to face on a Tuesday afternoon / evening at the Dragonfly Wellbeing Centre in Mutley, Plymouth and on a Monday afternoon / evening at the Wellness Rooms, Tavistock.

Online there is more flexibility; slots available Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, 8-6pm

Question 3

Is my problem too small?

Accepted Answer

Therapy doesn’t have to be about ‘big’ trauma. You can bring anything: whether you are at a really low point, got something on your mind that's bothering you or wanting self growth. If it's your human experience, you can bring it to therapy.

Question 4

What if I'm feeling nervous?

Accepted Answer

It's really normal to feel nervous coming to therapy. Whether it's the first session or the 50th you can feel apprehensive for a number of reasons. Doing the work to heal can be difficult so go easy on yourself. It's ok to be nervous and it's ok for us to talk about that in your session if you want.

Question 5

What happens in a session?

Accepted Answer

Your counselling session is a chance to talk about whatever you wish – from everyday events, problems and thoughts, to feelings, memories and past experiences. With my support you can express and explore in detail your internal and external worlds. It’s a place for sitting with difficult feelings but it’s also a place to celebrate successes!

Question 6

Is there homework?

Accepted Answer

No, although I would always encourage you to be curious about what we are talking about and reflect between sessions. You might choose to do this through a journal or maybe make a few notes on your phone if you feel that would be helpful. It's your therapy so it’s really up to you how you want to do things! There will be a natural process of gaining awareness outside of sessions, to implementing new ways of being or thinking and noticing the impact of that change on your life.

Question 7

What if I don't know what to talk about?

Accepted Answer

No problem. It's very common for people to say I don't know where to start or what to talk about? You don't have to arrive with a plan. We will just start somewhere and see where it goes. What unfolds in a session is always helpful.

Question 8

How often are sessions?

Accepted Answer

Sessions are 50 minutes, usually on a weekly basis, at the same time each week. If you’re not able to commit to a regular slot, perhaps due to changing work patterns, I have some limited availability to book ad hoc as you go. This will require you to be able to be flexible on the time. However, it’s important to attend counselling regularly so that the process is able to build some momentum – this really helps to make steady progress towards your goals.

Question 9

How and when do I pay ?

Accepted Answer

Payments are due weekly by BACs prior to each session. If you are working face to face you may chose to pay in cash. You are welcome to pay monthly or in blocks if you prefer.

Question 10

What if I need to cancel my session unexpectedly?

Accepted Answer

If you need to cancel a session unexpectedly (i.e. with less than 1 week’s notice), I ask that you let me know directly by text or email. The fee for a cancelled session is still payable in full.

Question 11

What happens if I can’t attend my session due to a holiday ?

Accepted Answer

My counselling business is my income and absences really affect my livelihood as it is difficult to fill the space when you are absent.
Therefore,  I ask that you give as much notice as possible of any holidays and other planned absences – minimum one week in advance. Planned absences and holidays with at least 1 week’s notice will not be charged for, (up to 2 absences in a 6 month period).

Question 12

How long will I need to come to therapy?

Accepted Answer

The length of time needed for counselling is really variable, depending on the individual and the nature of what you are bringing.

I offer open-ended counselling, so you can continue as long as you need it. However, I would advise that you should plan to be in therapy for at least 3-6 months (at least 12 sessions). This is because it takes time to develop new skills, ways of thinking and behaviours and to integrate these into your life to create lasting change. It also takes time to build up our relationship so that it is strong and trusting.

I don't ask for a minimum commitment, but if you have any time constraints it is helpful to discuss them at the beginning of therapy, so that we can contain our work accordingly.

Question 13

What platform do you use for working online?

Accepted Answer

I use google meet when I work online with clients as it is a secure and accessible platform.

You access your session via a unique link that I send you. You don't need a google account, as long as you have a web browser.

Frequently asked questions