Will information discussed in sessions be kept private?

Yes, what we talk about in sessions will be kept confidential, however, if there is a danger to yourself or others, then I will have to report this on to keep you safe. However, you will be told before if I need to this so you can ask questions or share worries and we can navigate this together. Information may need to be disclosed to GP, emergency services, local authority, parent/guardian (if under 18), emergency contact or local crisis teams. This is to give you the best support as I have a duty to protect you and keep you safe.

I am worried the confidentiality breach will put me in danger- how will you navigate this?

If confidentiality needs to be broken this is an absolute and needs to be done for your safety. However, if there are concerns, we can explore ways to keep you safe and also explore who will be safe to disclose information too. We will find a safe option for you.

What happens with the information I share in sessions or the data I give you?

In each session I will keep brief clinical notes to keep a record of what we discuss to help shape our sessions, however, only I will have access to these and they are stored under the guidelines of the Data Protection Act and GDPR (2018). Notes will only be disclosed if they are required by law (e.g. court mandated) or if you wish for me to share with anyone else.

What happens in a counselling session?

Your first session will firstly go through some contracting/consent and it will be a space for you to explore your situation, feelings and thoughts. Its also a space for us to get to know each other, set some goals and a plan for therapy. After this there is no typical counselling session as each person is different, I will be guided by what you wish to discuss whether its everyday events, dilemmas, feelings, and thoughts, to regrets, aspirations or memories. However, if you are stuck I can support you with ideas. With counselling/psychotherapy the key is to trust the process.

How do I know if you are the right therapist for me?

Before you start therapy, I offer a free initial 20 minute consultation, to see if we are the right fit for each other. During this consultation, we can have a discussion about what is going on for you and you can ask any questions you may have. You don’t have to decide instantly, please take some time to reflect if needed. It is important you work with the therapist who is right for you.

Can I end therapy anytime?

Yes you may withdraw from therapy anytime for any reason. However I do encourage to always have one final session to reflect, look at next steps and suggest any referrals.

How many sessions will I need?

This will vary from each person - I offer both short and long term therapy. We will always do regular reviews to see how you are getting on and we can determine it from there

Do I need to attend every week?

Clients will need to attend sessions on a regular basis for effective therapeutic outcomes. Weekly/fortnightly is ideal. I know therapy can be costly but we can always reflect on what will work for you therapeutically and financially.

What if I need help in between sessions?

Unfortunately, I am only able to offer scheduled appointments and do not offer crisis support, however, when you start therapy the counselling agreement will show out of hours support. If you wish to book in an additional session or even a half session for to talk things through we can do this. I will only be contactable weekdays 9am-6pm.

Do I need to do anything before therapy starts?

Before therapy starts I will need you to review policies, fill out forms and sign and return the counselling agreement. Payment will need to be made 48 hours before the session via bank transfer.

Do I need to bring anything to the sessions?

It may be useful to bring a notebook and pen to make notes, sometimes homework will be given to help you put things into practice and may need to be reflected on. Some people like to bring comfort items, such as blankets/soft toys, fidget toys.

What do I need for remote therapy?

A stable internet connection and/or phone signal. If you are having video sessions a PC, Laptop or tablet. If you need to use your phone for video sessions please ensure this is standing against a stationary object to limit movement. Please ensure devices are plugged in/have enough battery.