What to expect in my first session?
First sessions are often a little different from normal sessions, and it's normal to find them daunting, and a bit weird and awkward at times. First sessions are a chance to meet me and to see if I'm a good fit for you, and someone you feel comfortable with. They're also a chance for me to make sure I'm the right counsellor for you, and if I'm not then we'll come up with a plan of finding someone who is. There's space throughout for any questions you might have about me, how I work and more. A first session is more structured than regular sessions with me, and is the only time I'll take more of a lead within a session. 

 

Here's a rough guide of how they look (this isn't a step-by-step for all first sessions):

• Meeting and introductions 

• Running through the key points of the contract (which is sent ahead of session)

• Checking in to see if the contract made sense and if there's any questions / any additions 

• Paperwork (though not as bad as it sounds!) - I run through a form, asking around key relationships, lifestyle questions and more. There's no pressure to share everything, you can share as much as you feel comfortable with 

• Thinking about goals for counselling / what's bringing you to counselling

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This isn't an exhaustive list of what can be in a first session, or a definitive process - but hopefully gives some insight into how it might look. Each first session is tailored and responds to you, the client, and if we don't 'do' everything in the first session that's okay! It's our session together to give a glimpse into how we might work together if you choose. 

 

At the end of the first session there's no pressure to book another session there and then - you can go away and think about it, or if you do know you'd like to continue working with me we can book another session. 

How long is each session? 
Each session is 50 minutes long.

How frequent are sessions?
Sessions can either be weekly or fortnightly depending on your preference and availability. If we've been working together for a while and you'd like to transition to monthly sessions to have a check in space, we can decide that together - however I only offer monthly sessions online. 

What happens if I can't make a session?
If you can't make a session, then please let me know as soon as you're able. I require 24 hours notice to cancel a session, otherwise full payment is needed. If you're running late then the session will still end at the normal time. 

How do I pay?
I take payment via bank transfer or cash. 

Are our sessions confidential?
To keep our work together safe, I follow the confidentiality policies laid out by the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and their Ethical Framework. Anything that we explore within sessions will be kept confidential, except in certain circumstances which are listed below. 

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The following instances may require the breaking of confidentiality:

• If there is a serious risk to yourself or to another person(s)

• If there is anything disclosed that relates to a safeguarding concern around a child or adult at risk

• If you share information about a proposed act of terrorism, money laundering or drug trafficking 

What if I don't want to continue sessions?
It's absolutely fine if you don't want to continue sessions with me! Counselling is about finding the right therapist and someone who you feel you gel with and if that's not me that's okay. If you feel comfortable telling me, please let me know and we can have an ending session to end our work safely, and I can suggest someone else who may be a better fit for you. 

How do you look after yourself as a counsellor?
It's normal to wonder how I look after myself as a counsellor. I have regular supervision (which is all confidential and anonymised) and I make sure my week is filled with little things I enjoy (music and my dog bring me a lot of joy!).