Following the initial consultation, the first counselling session gives us an opportunity to begin exploring in more detail what has brought you to counselling and what you hope to gain from the process. We will also discuss any questions or concerns you may have and agree how we will work together.

It is important to know that you do not have to share everything immediately. Counselling is a process, and trust develops over time. There is often wisdom in taking things at a pace that feels safe for you and in protecting those parts of your experience that you are not yet ready to explore.

As our relationship develops, you may find that you feel more comfortable sharing aspects of yourself that initially felt difficult to talk about. There is no expectation or pressure to disclose more than feels right. We will work together to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgemental space where you can decide what to bring and when.

The first session is as much about you getting a sense of me as your counsellor as it is about me getting to know you. Feeling comfortable, understood, and supported is an important part of the counselling process, and finding the right counsellor for you matters.

Yes. Everything discussed in counselling is confidential, with a few legal and ethical exceptions. For example, relating to safety and safeguarding. These will be explained during our first session.

The number of sessions varies from person to person. Some clients find that a few sessions are enough to address a particular concern, while others value having longer-term support.

There is no set number of sessions, and together we will remain attentive to your needs as they unfold. From time to time, we may reflect on how you are finding the counselling process and whether it continues to feel helpful for you. We will work at a pace that feels right for you, with no expectation to continue for longer than you wish.

Yes. Counselling can help you understand the causes of anxiety and stress, develop coping strategies, and build greater confidence and resilience.

Counselling can support people experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, grief, relationship difficulties, trauma, low self-esteem, life transitions, work-related challenges, and many other personal concerns.

Many counsellors will highlight particular areas of interest or specialism on their websites. However, counselling can be helpful for a wide range of challenges that arise as part of being human. You do not need to be experiencing a specific mental health difficulty to benefit from counselling; many people seek support when they feel stuck, overwhelmed, uncertain, or simply want a space to better understand themselves and their experiences.

If you are looking for a counsellor and feel drawn to someone, it may be worth making contact even if they have not specifically mentioned the issue you would like to explore. During an initial conversation, they can help you determine whether they are well placed to support you or, if not, help you consider alternative options. Finding a counsellor with whom you feel comfortable and able to build a trusting relationship is often just as important as finding someone who lists a particular area of expertise.

Not unless you want to. Some clients find it helpful to explore past experiences, while others prefer to focus on current challenges and future goals.

Counselling is not usually about giving advice or making decisions for you. Instead, it offers a safe, supportive, and non-judgemental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences with someone alongside you.

I believe that you are the expert on your own life. While there may be times when I share observations, perspectives, or information that may be helpful, the choices you make are always your own. Counselling can provide an opportunity to slow down and listen more closely to yourself, helping you gain greater clarity about what feels right for you.

Often, people come to counselling carrying thoughts, feelings, or experiences that they have never said out loud before. Simply having the opportunity to express these things and hear them spoken can bring new understanding. Sometimes what has been held inside begins to shift, soften, or feel less overwhelming when it is shared within a trusting and supportive relationship.

Online sessions take place via a secure video platform. You can attend from the comfort of your own home, provided you have a private space and a reliable internet connection.

You can get in touch via the contact form, email, or telephone to arrange a free initial consultation and discuss availability.

I will always respond to enquiries as soon as I am able. If you contact me by telephone and I am unavailable, please leave a voicemail message with your name and contact details if you would like me to call you back.

To respect your privacy and ensure that I am contacting you at a suitable time, I do not return missed calls unless a voicemail message has been left requesting a callback. This helps to avoid contacting you when you may not be in a position to take a call or when it may not be convenient for you to speak.

Taking the first step can sometimes feel daunting, but I aim to make the process as straightforward and welcoming as possible. If you have any questions before arranging an informal consultation, please feel free to get in touch.