What to expect...
You may be apprehensive about taking your first steps into therapy.
By walking you through the steps of my approach and providing some answers to many of our frequently asked questions, I hope to alleviate some of the concerns you may have.
If you still have questions feel free to get in touch with me.
What to Expect in Counselling
If you are considering counselling, you may wonder what to expect during your sessions. Here is a general overview of the process:
Initial Consultation
Our first meeting will be an initial consultation. This is 15 minute telephone or online video appointment which is free of charge which allows us to decide whether my therapy practice is the right fit for you.
During this meeting, we will discuss any safeguarding concerns and confidentiality limits. I will ask about your reasons for seeking counselling, current challenges, and what your goals for counselling might be.
This is a chance for you to share your story and express your needs and an opportunity for me to understand exactly what you would like to achieve from our therapy sessions so that if you decide you wish to proceed with therapy, we can structure our sessions so they are focused and goal oriented to your needs from the outset.
Setting Goals
Together we will set specific goals for your counselling journey. These goals will guide your sessions and help you stay focused on what you want to achieve.
Whilst therapy is a journey, the aim is for you to finish your therapy with renewed hope, new coping strategies and tools for the future so that rather than going back to therapy when problems arise , you are equipped to deal with lifes future challenges.
Regular Sessions
Counselling sessions usually last 50 minutes and occur weekly or bi-weekly. During these sessions, you will discuss your thoughts and feelings, explore coping strategies, and work towards your goals.
It is important to recognise that weekly sessions whilst not mandatory are important in maintaining regular contact so that goals can be monitored and that the counselling process is maintained instead of big gaps between sessions.
This means that our previous weeks work is still fresh in your mind and we don't lose sight of achieving your goals.
I understand that life sometimes gets in the way and if for any reason you cant make your scheduled session, I will always aim to offer an alternative session within the same week. Please also see our cancellation policy.
Progress Evaluation
As you continue with counselling, we will periodically and regularly evaluate your progress. As part of the session there will be a brief review every 4 sessions to check that we are staying on track and look at your progress to date. This is an opportunity to reflect on what is working and what may need adjustment.
Conclusion of Counselling
Counselling is not a permanent commitment. Once you have achieved your goals and feel equipped to manage your challenges, we will discuss the conclusion of your sessions.
Person-centred Approach
The person centred approach I take to counselling centres itself around you, the client.
You are the expert in your life and I work with you to help you find a way forward.
I walk alongside you to help you discover what the answers may be and to make the changes you desire within your life and relationships.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
This approach to therapy can be helpful when life feels overwhelming.
CBT can offer strategies and techniques to assist you in understanding unhelpful patterns of thinking and the impacts that this may be having on your life.
You will always be offered a safe environment without judgement where you will be truly heard.
