Question 1

What can I talk about?

Accepted Answer

You can talk about anything that is on your mind – counselling is a safe space for you to bring anything you feel you need to discuss or to help you process any difficulties you may be facing. My confidentiality policy is on the contract that will be sent to you prior to attending for any sessions.

Question 2

How are the sessions delivered?

Accepted Answer

I offer therapy sessions via telephone, zoom (video) or face to face at my garden office in Streethay, Lichfield. I am mindful of current regulations regarding covid and clean and air my office and undertake regular LFTs to ensure we are both kept safe.

Question 3

Is this a confidential service?

Accepted Answer

Yes, what you say in our sessions is confidential and I adhere to the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapists) code of conduct and policies regarding confidentiality. Information you provide will not be shared with a third party other than in exceptional circumstances such as safeguarding issues or if required by law.

Question 4

Can I attend counselling fortnightly or whenever I need it?

Accepted Answer

I work flexibly in this and offer sessions as regularly as you want, some clients find weekly/fortnightly helpful initially and then move to more adhoc “catch up” sessions. I also offer single session, extended appointments for those times where having a little extra time is useful on a less frequent basis.

Question 5

What if I work shifts?

Accepted Answer

If you are a shift worker, I will work flexibly with you offering early morning, evening and Sunday appointments. Life can feel complicated; I understand that.

Question 6

Can I contact you between sessions?

Accepted Answer

As I am not an emergency or crisis service, I will not be available to you between sessions. If you are experiencing a crisis, contact NHS 111 (option 2) or the Samaritans on 116 123.

Question 7

How long will my counselling last?

Accepted Answer

I work flexibly in this, some clients find it helpful to have continued support for many years and others like to dip in and out as they feel ready. There is never any pressure on this from me.

Question 8

What happens if I want to end my sessions?

Accepted Answer

Regardless of how long you have been attending counselling, it is helpful arrange a final ending session together where possible.

Question 9

How do I know I will receive a professional service?

Accepted Answer

I am an Accredited  member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapists) and I adhere to their code of conduct. Registration Number - 00914138

Question 10

I have a holiday booked; will I be charged for my session? Why do I have to pay for missed sessions?

Accepted Answer

I ask for payment for each session 24 hours in advance to secure the appointment. Sessions cancelled with less that 24 hours notice are chargeable in full due to being unable to offer the session to another client at such short notice. For sessions cancelled within 48 hours 50% of the full fee is payable. In exceptional circumstances I will of course discuss this with you; life happens I understand that!
If I cannot make a session due to ill health you will not be charged, I will always aim to give as much notice as possible.

Question 11

Fees and availability. Do you offer any concessionary rates?

Accepted Answer

A session will ordinarily last 50 minutes and I offer a variety of times including early morning, evening and weekends. A session is priced at £60. I offer a discounted service to Armed forces personnel, veterans and Emergency service workers. Other concessions (such as student counsellor rates) can be arranged on discussion on a case by case basis. I am happy to chat through this at our introductory meeting.For single session one off appointments please send me an email and we can take it from there.

Frequently asked questions