Frequently Asked Questions

The Need To Know

💬 How do we get started?

Please email me to arrange a free 20-minute introductory call. This is a chance to see whether we feel like a good fit. We’ll talk about what brings you to counselling, what you’re hoping for, and you’re welcome to ask any questions.

🛋️ What happens in the first session?

If you decide to go ahead, the first session will involve going over our counselling agreement (also known as a therapeutic contract) and beginning our work together, wherever you’d like to start.

🔒 What is confidentiality?

Everything you share in therapy is confidential. I protect your personal information in line with the Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR.
There are rare exceptions where I may need to break confidentiality, such as if there’s risk of serious harm or to comply with the law. This is explained fully in our counselling agreement, and we can discuss any concerns.

🧘‍♀️ How should I prepare?

If you’re attending online, make sure you have a private, quiet space where you won’t be interrupted or overheard. You’ll need a charged device and a reliable internet connection.
You might like to jot down anything you’d like to bring, but it’s also okay to show up and see what comes up in the moment. Please arrive promptly and make payment as agreed.
You’re welcome to explore other forms of expression too, such as drawing, writing, or music, if that feels helpful.

📆 How often should I have therapy?

Weekly sessions are usually the most effective for building consistency and trust. However, we can discuss what works best for you.
You’ll usually be offered a regular time slot, and future sessions can be confirmed as we go.

⏱️ How long are sessions?

Each session lasts for 50 minutes, often called the "therapeutic hour."

🪴 How long will we work together?

That’s entirely up to you. Some people choose open-ended work and review as we go. Others prefer a set number of sessions.
However we work, I encourage us to plan an ending session to reflect and bring closure when the time feels right.

🗂️ Do you keep records of sessions?

Yes. For insurance, supervision, and good practice, I keep brief, anonymous notes of our sessions. These are stored securely in line with UK GDPR and are not shared with any third party.
I keep records for 7 years from the end of therapy and then securely destroy them.
You have the right to access, rectify, or request erasure of your data. Please see my Privacy Policy for more details.

🔄 Would you refer me to another service or counsellor?

If I feel your needs would be better met by someone with different expertise or training, I’ll talk with you about this and help with any onward referral. This is in line with the BACP ethical framework and ensures you get the best support.

🗓️ What is your availability?

I offer flexible weekday appointments, which we can discuss in your introductory call. I don’t currently offer weekend sessions.

🎨 Can I work creatively?

Absolutely. The space is yours, and if you’d like to explore things beyond talking, we can include creative elements. This might include drawing, writing, music, using objects, or other approaches that feel meaningful to you.

🤔 How do I know you’re the right counsellor for me?

It’s a really important question. The relationship between us is at the heart of therapy.
We’ll check in about the fit during our first session and ongoing work. If something doesn’t feel right, you’re encouraged to bring it into the space. Sometimes that’s part of the therapeutic process; sometimes it’s a sign that a different approach or practitioner might be better.
What matters most is that you feel safe, supported, and able to be yourself.

🌍 Do you work with clients outside of the UK?

I only work with clients who are located in the UK at the time of sessions. This is due to legal, safeguarding, and privacy reasons.

📚 What is the BACP?

The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) is a professional body that ensures ethical and competent therapeutic practice.
I am a registered member, having undergone recognised training, adhering to their ethical framework, and engaging in ongoing professional development. You can view the BACP Ethical Framework here.