Here are some frequently asked questions or things you might wonder about counselling. Feel free to send me an email if your question is not answered here.

What is counselling?

Counselling is a collaborative, and confidential space where client and counsellor come together to navigate the challenges in your life that you would like to work on. I will help you explore your thoughts, make sense of your feelings and find direction that aligns with the person you want to be and what matters to you most. There isn't an issue too big or too small. If it's effecting you, then it's worth talking about. 

What is the benefit of talking to a counsellor, instead of a friend?

As Jacques Lacan once said "Talking to a friend brings comfort, talking to a therapist means facing a truth your friends might protect you from". Because I am not personally involved in your life outside of our sessions it can feel easier for you to open up about difficult topics. If we see each other in public, I won't acknowledge you unless you talk to me first. This is done to protect your confidentiality, and so you don't have to explain to the people you are with, about how you know me. 

It can be helpful to have both supportive friends and a counsellor when life gets tough!

What if I don't know what to say?

That is common. Sometimes clients can find it hard to know where to begin. It's a part of my role to help guide the conversation to create a space where things can naturally unfold. That might look like starting with what's been on your mind recently, or it might be just taking it one step at a time however that might look. 

What happens in the first session?

Our first session is a chance for us to meet each other and talk at your comfort level about what you would like support with. It's also a chance for your brain to become familiar with me and my counselling room. Above all, we take it at your pace, however that looks for you. 

How many sessions will I need?

It depends. Sometimes the work done in counselling is just a drop in the client's wellbeing bucket, and sometimes it is much more than that. We can discuss together how many sessions might be of benefit to you and make a plan accordingly.

Are you going to judge me?

 I wholeheartedly believe that everyone is doing the best they can with the experiences, knowledge, and resources they have at the time, and with this comes a genuine non-judgemental outlook. I also believe that if a counsellor was to judge a client, that is something the counsellor needs to reflect on, and not anything that the client has done wrong.

What if I feel nervous?

Feeling nervous is completely normal. We can go at your pace, taking time to build trust, before you share anything personal. You are always in control.

What if we aren't a good fit?

That is totally fine. If this is the case, I am more than happy to help you find another counsellor who is better suited.