Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know whether I need counselling?

All of us experience problems during our lives. We can solve many of these problems ourselves with relative ease, or by talking to friends and family. Sometimes we find a problem is bothering us more than we'd like, and we really struggle to find a solution. We may not want to talk to people we know because it's too personal. This is where counselling can help - you can rely on a supportive, understanding and non-judgemental environment in which to really get to the bottom of whatever holds you back from leading a happy and fulfilled life.

How can counselling help me?

Counselling gives you the time and space to look at whatever issues are holding you back in life. You'll have a safe environment to explore these issues, and the right balance of support and challenge will help you to solve your problems and reach your goals. Talking to someone who isn't directly involved in your problems can add a fresh perspective, and give you new insights into whatever bothers you.

What kind of things can I talk to you about?

Anything that is bothering you. Whether it's a specific issue that you need help with (e.g. you have suffered a bereavement) or whether you have a more general problem (e.g. you get angry easily, feel anxious in a variety of situations, or feel you just can't cope) - what we discuss will be your decision. On occasion I might, based on what you tell me, suggest that exploring certain issues might prove beneficial to you, but the ultimate decision is yours. It's your time.

How many sessions will I need?

You may feel you've achieved what you want to get from counselling after a few sessions, or you may need longer to work through complex problems. Normally we will have a week in between sessions, to give you time to think about what we've discussed and consider what you want to talk about in the next session so you can get the most out of your therapy. We can either agree on a fixed number of sessions at the start or we can see how we go.

If you have a question that's not answered here, feel free to contact me and I'll do my best to answer it.