COUNSELLING AND FAQ's

What can you expect from counselling?

Whether you're thinking about counselling for the first time or returning after a break, it's completely normal to have questions.

This page explains how I work, what happens during counselling and answers some of the questions I'm most often asked. Whether you're looking for online counselling across the UK or you're based in Crewe or Cheshire, I hope this helps you feel more informed and reassured before getting started.
 

What is counselling?

Counselling gives you a dedicated space to talk openly about whatever is on your mind, without fear of judgement or pressure.

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Sometimes people come because they know exactly what's wrong. Other times they just know something doesn't feel right. You don't need to have everything worked out before you start.

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My role isn't to tell you what to do or make decisions for you. Instead, I'll work alongside you to help you better understand yourself, explore what's been happening in your life, and find a way forward that feels right for you.

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Although my foundation is person-centred counselling, I also draw on CBT techniques where they're helpful. Every session is shaped around you, your needs, and what feels most useful at the time.

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How many counselling sessions will I need?

I offer both short and long term therapy, but how many sessions you might need will depend entirely on you and your needs. We can discuss the amount and duration together at our initial consultation or in your first session.

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What should I expect at my first session?

At our first appointment together we will discuss why you wanted to come to counselling, any aims you might want to work towards, and any expectations you might have.

 

We can then discuss how we might work together to achieve this and equally address any concerns or questions you might have about the process. You can share with me as much as you feel comfortable with and we can then begin to explore what is going on for you. 

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A copy of our client and counsellor contract will be emailed to you before your first session. This will set out the professional boundaries of our therapeutic relationship and how your confidentiality will be kept safe. This can also be discussed in our first session if you have any questions or would like to discuss the contents further. 

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Do I need to dress up or behave a certain way? 

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Not at all.

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One of the biggest advantages of online counselling is that you're already in a place where you're likely to feel more comfortable. If that means joining the session in your pyjamas with a cup of tea, that's absolutely fine. If you vape, swear, fidget, pace around the room, or need to stim or tic, that's all okay too.

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Many of the people I work with are autistic, ADHD, or otherwise neurodivergent, so I understand that masking can be exhausting. You don't need to hide parts of yourself or worry about looking or acting a certain way. My priority is that you feel comfortable enough to be yourself.

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The only things I ask are that you attend the session sober, fully clothed and in a private space where you can speak openly without other people listening in or joining the conversation.

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