Common Questions About Counselling

I’m nervous about starting therapy.

Feeling nervous about beginning therapy is completely normal. It can be daunting to talk about feelings, especially if you haven’t had the chance to express them before. Recognising this fear takes courage, and just by being here, you are showing a brave part of yourself.
Therapy is a safe space where you can be yourself and discuss whatever is on your mind, including your nerves. I’m dedicated to making your sessions as comfortable as possible.

Many clients have felt this way, but I want to reassure you that every feeling is valid. If you’re feeling unhappy, confused, or know that past experiences are impacting your present, you deserve support just as much as anyone else. Your well-being is important, and counselling can be a valuable step toward feeling okay.

ItIt’s perfectly normal to feel hesitant about sharing certain topics. During our sessions, you are never required to discuss anything you’re not ready to. My role is to create a supportive environment where you can gradually work through difficult feelings at your own pace. If you’re nervous about opening up, we can address that together. Whatever you bring to our sessions is welcome, and we will explore it when you feel ready.

If you choose to open up, I will view you as incredibly brave, not overly sensitive. Many clients share this fear, and I want to emphasise that you are not being dramatic. My practice provides a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard and supported, regardless of what you’re experiencing.

Think of the first session as an opportunity for us to get to know each other. I’ll invite you to share about yourself, your background, and any previous experiences with mental health support. I’ll ask questions like:

• What brought you to therapy?

• What goals would you like to achieve?

• What should I know to understand your current challenges?

You are welcome to ask me anything as well, whether about my journey as a therapist or how I’ve assisted clients like you. The most important aspect is for you to experience what it’s like to work with me. If you feel safe and comfortable, we can discuss the next steps together.

Absolutely. Your privacy and trust are my top priorities. Everything you share in our sessions is confidential, with the exception of instances where I may be concerned for your safety or that of someone else.

Take your time to explore my website. If you feel a connection to what you read, I encourage you to reach out via email with any questions you may have. The first few sessions can be seen as a way for both of us to explore if we’re a good fit. It’s crucial that you feel comfortable and understood.

Each session lasts 50 minutes.

The duration of therapy varies for each client. Many clients report feeling positive changes after just a few sessions, while lasting progress typically develops over time. You are in control of the pace and length of your therapy journey.
Some clients find that 6-8 weeks are enough to address immediate concerns, while others prefer longer-term support. Together, we’ll find a timeline that works for you. You are always in control of your therapeutic process.

Currently, I offer therapy online, which many clients have found effective and convenient. I understand that online therapy may not suit everyone, and I am exploring the option of returning to face-to-face sessions in the future. I’ll keep my website updated on this front.
If you prefer face-to-face therapy, please let me know, and I can keep your details to inform you when I begin offering that option again.

My sessions are priced at £105 for a 50-minute session and £55 for those aged 20-25. I also offer longer sessions for specific needs, charged pro rata:

• 75-minute sessions: £157

• Single Session Therapy (110 minutes): £210

I ask that payment is made prior to each appointment, and I have a cancellation policy of 48 hours to avoid the full fee.

To get started, simply email me or use the contact form on my website. We can arrange your first session, where you can share what’s going on, and I can outline how I might be able to help. There’s no obligation to continue if you feel I’m not the right fit for you.