HOW I WORK
OPEN AND ENCOURAGING
I work in an open and encouraging way, to foster a safe and respectful partnership with you. I don't judge or criticise but use a variety of strategies to help you clarify your situation, focus on your priorities, explore your options and, especially, to find and use your own resources and potential for change.
THE FIRST SESSION
It's very important that you feel comfortable with the counsellor you choose. The first session is an opportunity for us to meet together in person and for you to get a feel for how I work - without any obligation.
At this meeting, we will talk about what brings you to counselling and how best we might work together. It's also an opportunity for you to ask me any questions you like. If we do then start working together, we will review progress regularly, to ensure that the counselling is meeting your needs.
HOW LONG?
Sometimes it takes only very few sessions to unravel a problem and find a way forward. It takes longer to work through more complicated difficulties, but I am committed to helping you achieve as much as possible, at your own pace, in the shortest time.
Appointments usually last one hour (not 50 mins). Couples, or clients coming from a long distance sometimes prefer a one and a half hour session, which is fine.
I may sometimes suggest relevant tasks to try out between sessions, as an aide to counselling progress - and I also offer relaxation techniques if appropriate/required.
Appointments are usually weekly initially, but can become less frequent as things progress. I'm happy to work flexibly with timings and frequency of sessions, as required - according to individual need and circumstances.
COST
My charge (per hour) is £35 (individuals), £40 (couples). Some reduced cost sessions may be negotiated for those on a low income.