Frequently Asked Questions about Counselling
Will I have to deal with my past?
It can be useful for me and you to get a full picture of your life so far as this information can be the reason why you feel the way you do, however I always try to work at my clients pace so no one has to jump in feet first unless that's what they want to do.
Will I Become Dependent on Therapy?
It is possible for clients to form an attachment to the therapist that they have worked closely with, particularly when it has been over a long period of time, but this can be valuable part of the process and it can be acknowledged and processed before ending the work.
Will I Benefit from Therapy
From my experience and the feedback from my clients I would say almost everyone could benefit from counselling and or Psychotherapy. There is no magic wand to make every thing right straight away, but I truly believe that with my commitment and that of my clients, it is possible to find peace of mind.
Is Counselling Confidential?
I adhere to the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) code of ethics who set out strict rules with regards to confidentiality, as with most things there are some limits and these I will discuss with you before we proceed in the work
How does Counselling and Psychotherapy help?
As we move through life new challenges that once we faced without a problem can now cause anxiety, Counselling and Psychotherapy give us a chance to explore and unpick the problem, by doing this we gain awareness of aspects of ourselves that may have been hidden. We can then work to integrate these aspects into our worlds which then allows us to live with a sense of freedom.
Who do you see?
I work with individuals, but not couples together. I do however often see individuals who are experiencing relationships problems, and if they wish I can refer the couple to marriage guidance specialists. I do not see people under the age of 14.
I cannot provide a crisis service - if you feel you are at risk, it would be advisable to contact your GP, or the Samaritans.
I am nervous about my first counselling session, is there anything I need to do or bring?
It is perfectly normal to feel apprehensive about meeting for your first session. However I believe it is the start of a journey we will travel together on a route to recovery and exploration. It may not all be easy, but you will not be alone and the rewards usually far out weigh the doubts.
How long will it take?
It is very difficult to say how long therapy will take, there are many factors which will influence how long therapy with take; the depth of the problem, client commitment to therapy, the ability to be reflective, the relationship with the therapist, financial commitments and what you wish to achieve.
However my wish is for my clients to feel they are moving forward, so I regularly check to see how they are feeling about the work, this way I feel I am being ethical and responding to the need of my clients.
How often should I attend sessions?
From experience I am aware that weekly sessions are the most effective as this helps with continuity and process, but I do not pressure my clients to commit to this and fortnightly is sometimes enough. This is something we can discuss on meeting
Is my problem too small?
Not all therapy is about deep routed issues, sometimes we just need to find some clarity with a situation, You find yourself with something playing on your mind but not really known why, or notice yourself repeating behaviours and don't understand what stops this happening? Counselling can be a useful way to explore this.
Isn’t it a sign of weakness to need counselling?
Counsellors themselves will have had counselling so I would say that it is not. I always admire and appreciate the strength my clients bring, It can feel overwhelming and debilitating to be in a place where we cannot find the answers, the fact that a client has reached out to a person for help and support, shows great strength and trust in another.
What if I cannot attend a session?
I would expect 24 hours notice of a cancellation. If you do not attend and have not given 24 hours notice then a fee is chargeable
