Frequently Asked Questions
You may have questions before getting in touch. Below are some common questions about counselling, sessions, fees and how I work.
What is counselling?
Counselling offers a confidential space to talk about what feels difficult, confusing or painful. It is not about being told what to do, but about having time to speak openly and begin to make sense of your thoughts, feelings and experiences.
My approach is psychodynamic, which means we may think together about how past experiences, relationships and repeated patterns could be affecting how you feel now.
What can I bring to counselling?
People come to counselling for many different reasons. You may be struggling with anxiety, low mood, stress, grief, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, family issues, work pressures, or a general feeling of being stuck.
You do not need to know exactly what is wrong before getting in touch. We can begin with whatever feels most important to you.
How long is each session?
Sessions last 50 minutes and usually take place at the same time each week.
Meeting regularly can help create a steady and reliable space where we can think together about what is happening for you.
Do you offer open-ended counselling?
Yes. I offer open-ended counselling rather than a fixed number of sessions. This means we do not need to decide at the beginning how long counselling will last.
We can continue for as long as the sessions feel useful, reviewing this together as we go.
Do you offer face-to-face and online sessions?
Yes. I offer counselling in the room in Witham and Chelmsford, as well as online counselling for adults across the UK.
Online sessions can be helpful if you live further away, have work or family commitments, or prefer to attend from home.
What are your fees?
My fee is £55 per 50-minute counselling session.
This can be paid by card, cash or bank transfer. Fees and payment arrangements can be discussed during the initial consultation.
Do you offer an initial consultation?
Yes. I offer a free 30-minute initial consultation.
This gives us an opportunity to talk about what brings you to counselling, what you are looking for, and whether working together feels right. There is no obligation to continue after this consultation.
Is counselling confidential?
Counselling is confidential, and I will explain confidentiality clearly at the start of our work together.
There are some limits to confidentiality, for example if there is a serious risk of harm to you or someone else, or if I am legally required to share information. These limits will be discussed with you so that you understand how confidentiality works.
How do I know if counselling is right for me?
You do not need to be certain before making contact. Many people begin counselling with mixed feelings, or without knowing exactly what they want to say.
An initial consultation can help us think together about whether counselling may be helpful for you at this point.
Who will I be seeing?
When you get in touch, you will be contacting me directly. We can arrange an initial consultation and, if we decide to continue, your counselling sessions will be with me each week.
What is the difference between counselling and therapy?
People often use the words counselling and therapy in similar ways. On this site, I mostly use the word counselling, but therapy can also describe the kind of regular, confidential talking space I offer.
How do I book a session?
You can get in touch by email or phone to arrange an initial consultation.