Frequently Asked Questions

How much do sessions cost?

Each session costs £60 payable after the session.

I offer a free of charge 20-minute phone call to discuss your needs and to see if you want to proceed to book an initial session.

How long does each session last?

Counselling sessions last for up to 50 minutes.

How many sessions will I need?

Some people find just one session is helpful. This is your decision. I work with what you need. If that’s a set number of sessions, we work together with that. If you’re unsure, we can discuss and review as we go along. For you to get the most out of your counselling, the sessions are held at the same time on a weekly basis. If this doesn’t work for you, we can discuss this when we meet.

Is counselling right for me?

Counselling isn’t right for everyone. It also has to be the right time for you to want to make changes to how you feel. We can talk about this before you make a decision.

What can I talk about?

Whatever issues are on your mind or troubling you. That might be day-to-day issues or worries about the past or the future.

What happens in the first session?

I will explain about confidentiality and I'll ask you some questions so I can better understand you. Questions such as:

What has brought you to counselling?
Your personal history and current situation.
What is your family situation?
How is your issue affecting your life, both now and in the past?

Have a think about this beforehand if you can, but if not, that's okay. We can work through this together. This is a two-way relationship, so I want you to ask questions too. It might feel daunting, but all your thoughts and feelings are relevant to our sessions together, so try to be as open as you can.

Towards the end of the session, I'll summarise what you've told me to check my understanding. I may ask what you will do after this session. It's important you look after yourself and take some time to process how you feel.

Before we decide on future sessions, I will ask you to consider the following;

Am I comfortable with this counsellor?
Is this someone I could come to trust?

We can then talk through what you'd like to do next.

Please let me know if you want more information on what happens in our first session. I am more than happy to talk this through on the phone.

Can counselling help with depression?

Yes, counselling can help people who have depression. You can find more information on the NHS website.

Can I trust you?

You can definitely trust me. I am a registered member of the BACP and I adhere to their strict code of ethics, which includes confidentiality. I will discuss the limitations of confidentiality when we first talk. The relationship is so important in helping you to make changes and to feel better. I work with my clients at a pace and in a way which feels right for that individual and which best suits their needs. You can expect a safe professional service from me.

What age groups do you work with?

I work with adults and young people over 14 years of age.

Where are you based for face-to-face counselling?

I am based in central Reading. Please see my contact me page for more details about my therapy room.

Are you insured?

I have full Professional Liabilities Insurance