Frequently Asked Questions
Please click on the tabs below for answers to questions commonly raised.
1.What will happen in the first session?
The first session (initial consultation) will last for 60 minutes. During this time, I will be assessing the nature of your difficulties and we will then discuss the ways in which we can proceed. There will be ample time for you to ask questions.
2. How will I know if it is right for me?
Counselling and Psychotherapy requires a commitment and a readiness to engage in the process in order to get the most out. After the initial consultation session, you will be offered an initial contract for six sessions which are intended to provide a period of mutual assessment so that we can both decide whether counselling sessions with me could benefit you. At session four we would agree to either end there or continue counselling, the period of time will be agreed together. I offer open ended integrative psychotherapy or short-term counselling consisting of 6-12 sessions.
3. How often would I come to see you?
You will be required to attend once a week at the same time and on the same day each week. I offer 50-minute sessions.
4. How long would we work together?
This will depend on your needs and will be negotiated. Regular reviews of our work together will be included, which will provide an opportunity to reflect on progress made and re-assess goals..
5. Where will therapy take place?
I work online via zoom, from The Heaton Centre in Stockport and at The Space in Manchester, The Royal Exchange. Further details will be given when you contact me. The therapy session will take place in a professional, confidential and friendly atmosphere.
6. What is a counselling contract?
A counselling contract is a document detailing how we work together, things like confidentiality, fees, cancellation are outlined and will need to be agreed before we start working together. You will be given a copy of the contract to read through and raise any questions in the first session.
7. If I decide not to continue with Counselling/Psychotherapy?
If you decide that you want to end counselling before the end of the agreed contracted period a minimum of 2 sessions notice is required. This is to ensure that we have enough time to deal with any unfinished business and to end safely.
8. What if counselling/psychotherapy is not appropriate?
If counselling/psychotherapy is not appropriate for you at this time, you will receive the best advice as to how to proceed. There may be occasions where I may not be the right counsellor to work with you and or I may need to refer you to another counsellor or consult with your GP, I would always discuss this with you first.
9. Are the sessions Confidential?
All sessions are confidential, there are however some legal exceptions to confidentiality which I will be pleased to discuss with you in the initial consultation meeting.
10. How does counselling/psychotherapy help?
Sharing your problems with someone who is trained in listening can often help you understand more about yourself, your relationships and how past and present experiences and current behaviour may be linked. My approach is relational, non-judgemental and objective. I hope you will gain insight, awareness and understanding into your issues, and that I might be able to facilitate you in making the changes you want to make.
11. What Qualifications do you have?
My training and qualification include a BA (Hons) Applied Social Studies, Certificate of Qualification in Social Work (C.Q.S.W) and a MSc Integrative Psychotherapy. I am also a member of the United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP). I abide by the Metanoia code of ethics and receive regular supervision which supports my practice. I am committed to continued professional development as a means of maintaining and expanding my skills.
12. What experience do you have?
I have worked with a diverse range of individuals with many different issues and in various counselling settings since 2000. I have worked with vulnerable children and adults for even longer which has given me an in-depth understanding of how social, emotional, psychological and physical problems can manifest and interrupt your ability to function at different times in your life.
