Frequently asked questions
If you're thinking about counselling, it's completely natural to have questions.
You may never have had counselling before, or you may be unsure whether it's the right thing for you.
You might even be wondering what you'll say when you first meet me.
You don't need to have everything worked out before you get in touch.
I've answered some of the questions I hear most often below. And if there's something you'd like to ask that isn't here, please feel free to contact me.
What happens when I first contact you?
The first step is simply a conversation.
I offer a free 15–20 minute initial consultation, either face-to-face, online or by telephone.
It's an opportunity for you to tell me a little about what's brought you to counselling, ask any questions and get a feel for how I work.
There is no obligation to book counselling afterwards.
What if I don't know what to say?
That's absolutely fine.
You don't need to prepare anything or know exactly what's wrong.
You can simply tell me:
“I'm struggling and I'm not sure where to start.”
We'll take it from there.
Do I have to talk about everything that has happened to me?
No.
You remain in control of what you choose to share.
We will work at a pace that feels manageable for you, and you don't have to discuss something before you're ready.
If you're coming to me for trauma support or Rewind Therapy, you don't need to describe your traumatic experience in graphic detail.
Will you judge me?
No.
Counselling is a space where you can be honest about your thoughts, feelings and experiences without being judged.
My role isn't to tell you what you should do. It's to listen, understand and work alongside you.
How do I know if counselling is right for me?
You don't have to be certain.
You may simply know that something isn't feeling right, that you're struggling to cope or that you would like someone to talk to.
The free initial consultation gives you the opportunity to talk things through and decide whether counselling feels right for you.
How often will I have counselling?
Sessions are generally weekly or fortnightly.
The frequency will depend on your circumstances, needs and what we agree together.
We'll talk about this during your initial consultation.
How long will I need counselling?
There isn't one answer to this.
Some people come with a specific issue they want to work through, while others need more time to explore longstanding difficulties or trauma.
We'll regularly review how things are going and whether counselling continues to feel helpful.
Do you offer face-to-face and online counselling?
Yes.
I offer face-to-face counselling from The Reiki Room in Acle, Norfolk, as well as online counselling across the UK.
Telephone sessions may also be available where appropriate.
Do you work with children and young people?
Yes.
I have 25 years' experience working with children and young people and use creative, age-appropriate approaches including talking, art and play.
I work with children and young people experiencing anxiety, low self-esteem, grief, trauma, difficulties at school, emotional difficulties, neurodivergence and other challenges.
Do you work with neurodivergent clients?
Yes.
I welcome neurodivergent clients and recognise that counselling may need to be adapted to the individual.
Where helpful, we can consider communication preferences, sensory needs, processing time and the environment in which we work.
You don't need to change who you are to fit into therapy.
What is Rewind Trauma Therapy?
Rewind Therapy is a trauma-focused technique that can be used to help reduce the distress associated with traumatic memories.
It does not require you to repeatedly describe or relive your trauma in detail.
I'm a qualified Rewind Trauma Therapist and can discuss whether this approach may be appropriate for you during an initial consultation.
Is counselling confidential?
Counselling is a confidential space where you can talk openly about your thoughts and experiences.
There are some important exceptions relating to safeguarding and risk, which I'll explain clearly when we begin working together.
You will always be treated with respect and kept informed about anything that needs to be discussed.
Can I bring someone with me?
If you're attending your initial consultation, we can discuss what would make you feel most comfortable.
For children and young people, I'll also talk with parents or carers about how we can work together while respecting the young person's need for a safe therapeutic space.
What if I'm nervous about contacting you?
You wouldn't be the first person to feel nervous.
Taking the first step towards counselling can feel daunting, particularly if you've never spoken to a counsellor before.
You don't need to write a long message or explain everything.
You can simply say:
“I'd like to know more about counselling.”
I'll get back to you and we'll take it from there.
What does counselling cost?
Adults
Initial consultation - free
Counselling sessions and/or Rewind Therapy sessions of 50 minutes each - £50
Online sessions - £50
Children and young people 12 to 16 years old
Initial consultation - free
Counselling session and/or Rewind Therapy of 30 minutes each - £30
Online sessions 30 minutes - £30
The free initial consultation lasts approximately 15–20 minutes and gives you an opportunity to discuss your needs before deciding whether you'd like to continue.
What happens if I decide counselling isn't right for me?
That's okay.
The initial consultation is there to help you make an informed decision.
If I don't feel that I'm the right person to support you, I'll be honest about that and, where appropriate, suggest other sources of support.