Frequently asked questions
Starting therapy can bring up lots of questions, especially if you're new to therapy or unsure what to expect. I've answered some of the questions you might have below to help you feel more informed and comfortable taking that first step.
If there's something you'd like to know that isn't covered here, please feel free to get in touch.
How do I know if counselling is right for me?
You don't need to be in crisis or have everything figured out to benefit from counselling. Sometimes, you might feel overwhelmed, stuck in familiar patterns, disconnected from yourself or simply want a better understanding of who you are and why you feel the way you do.
Counselling offers a space to explore what's happening in your life, make sense of your experiences and consider what you might need moving forward. You don't need to have all the answers before you begin.
What can I expect from my first counselling session?
Your first session is an opportunity for us to begin getting to know one another and explore what has brought you to counselling. We can talk about what's been happening for you, what you'd like support with and what you hope to gain from our work together.
There is no pressure to share everything at once. We can take things at your pace, and you are always welcome to ask questions or let me know if something feels difficult to talk about.
What is integrative counselling?
Integrative counselling brings together ideas and techniques from different therapeutic approaches to create a way of working that suits you as an individual.
Rather than following one fixed method, I draw on different perspectives to help us explore your experiences, emotions, thoughts and patterns of behaviour. Our work is collaborative, and we can adapt our approach as your needs develop.
At the heart of my practice is the belief that the therapeutic relationship matters. Feeling heard, understood and accepted is an important part of the process.
What issues can counselling help with?
People come to counselling for many different reasons. You might be experiencing something specific, or you might have a general feeling that things aren't quite right.
I work with adults experiencing difficulties including:
- Anxiety, stress and feeling overwhelmed.
- Depression and low mood.
- Trauma and difficult life experiences.
- Grief and loss.
- Relationship difficulties.
- Low self-esteem and confidence.
- People-pleasing and difficulties with boundaries.
- Feeling disconnected from yourself or uncertain about your identity.
- Life changes, transitions and questions about direction.
- Personal growth and a desire to understand yourself more deeply.
You don't need to see yourself in one particular category to get in touch. We can explore what's happening for you together.
How often will I need counselling?
Sessions usually take place weekly, as regular sessions can help us build continuity and give you space to reflect on what emerges between appointments.
However, everyone's circumstances are different. We can discuss what feels manageable for you and review your needs as we go along.
How many counselling sessions will I need?
There is no set number of sessions that works for everyone. Some people come with a particular difficulty they would like to explore, while others want more time to understand longstanding patterns or experiences.
We can discuss your hopes for counselling and review our work together as it progresses. There is no expectation that you should reach a particular point by a certain date.
Do I have to talk about my past?
No. Although exploring past experiences can sometimes help us understand present-day feelings and behaviours, counselling is not about revisiting everything you've been through.
We will work with what feels relevant and manageable for you. You are in control of what you choose to share, and we can take things at a pace that feels comfortable.
Is counselling confidential?
Confidentiality is an important part of creating a safe space for counselling. What you share in sessions is treated with respect and handled confidentially.
There are some limits to confidentiality, which I will explain before we begin. These may include situations where there are serious concerns about your safety or someone else's safety, or where disclosure is required by law.
If a concern arises, I will aim to discuss this with you wherever possible and appropriate.
Do you offer online and in-person counselling?
Yes. I offer online counselling for adults across the UK, as well as in-person sessions in Solihull.
Online sessions take place via Microsoft Teams, allowing you to access counselling from a private, comfortable space of your own. In-person sessions offer the opportunity to meet face-to-face.
We can discuss which option might suit you best when you get in touch.
What if I feel nervous about starting counselling?
Feeling nervous about starting counselling is completely understandable. Talking to someone new about your thoughts and feelings can feel unfamiliar, particularly if you're used to managing things on your own.
You don't need to know what to say or where to begin. We can take our time, and there is no expectation that you share more than you feel ready to.
My aim is to offer a space where you can feel comfortable being yourself, without judgement or pressure.
How do I get started?
Taking the first step can sometimes feel like the hardest part.
You can get in touch through the contact form on my website or email me directly. We can arrange a free 20-minute initial consultation, giving you an opportunity to ask questions, tell me a little about what you're looking for and consider whether working together feels right for you.
There is no obligation to continue if you decide counselling isn't right for you at this time.