When I work with traumatic memories and events I am mindful of how to work at a pace which is safe for you, I use approaches which are evidence based and supported by the World Health Organisation and the NHS.
How our sessions work
Perhaps you are a little unsure about who can help or where to turn. Deciding to have therapy can be a daunting process, so it’s useful for us to have an initial meeting. I offer an informal 30 minute free consultation session. This is an opportunity for you to meet me and get a sense of how I work, for me to learn more about your needs and why you’re considering counselling at this time in your life.
It allows me to assess how I can support you and then we can decide how to proceed.
It can be a big decision to decide whether to begin counselling and important that you find the right therapist to work with. We will work collaboratively throughout the process. Whether we work together for a short time or over a longer period, there will be regular points at which we review the therapy. This is important to make sure you are getting the help and support that you need.
All of us have struggles in life, at times we hit what feels like insurmountable brick walls. I believe that knowing we are not alone is vital. So too, is feeling safe, accepted, heard, and understood. Being supported to work at a pace that is right for you and having the space, support and courage to hear that wise and knowing part of you that will lead you to your healing. I am here to support you on that journey.
The Difference between Counselling and Psychotherapy
Put simply, counselling works at a more immediate level generally focusing on a current issue that you are facing right now ( anxiety, bereavement) helping you manage the issue and how it is making you feel.
Psychotherapy works at a deeper process level working with clients on a longer-term basis and draws from insight into emotional problems and difficulties. Psychotherapy involves exploring your past and helping you to understand why you behave in certain ways, attract certain people or why your life choices are not helping you create a fulfilling and satisfying way of life.
Session Information and Fees
- We start off with an initial free consultation and then you decide whether to arrange follow up sessions.
- The initial half hour consultation session is where we can begin to get to know each other
- and you can start to talk more about some of the reasons why you have chsen to seek help.
- The initial session is usually a relatively informal session that is more about finding out about what therapy involves and what you can expect from the counselling process.
- If we continue to work together, we will draw up a short therapy contract, which includes, the length of session, dates, times, frequency, confidentiality, fees and my cancellation policy.
- Regular counselling sessions are weekly and take place at the same time and on the same day and last for fifty minutes. Sessions are available at £60.00 per session.
- If you cannot attend your regular session for some reason, I have a cancellation policy. I ask for 72 hours’ notice of your intention to cancel. If you can provide notice in advance of this time period then the session fee does not apply.