Frequently asked questions

No question is too small

Starting counselling can feel like a big step and it’s completely natural to have questions. Below you’ll find answers to some of the things people often wonder about before beginning.

If your question isn’t covered here, please feel free to get in touch — I’ll be happy to help.

Practicalities

  • Sessions are £55 each and last 50 minutes. I offer a small number of concessionary spaces and a reduced rate for students. If this applies to you, please feel free to discuss it with me before we begin.

  • Payment can be made by bank transfer before your session or by cash or card at the time of your appointment, unless we’ve agreed otherwise. Payment details will be provided once you decide to go ahead.

  • Yes, I offer a free 20-minute online consultation. It’s a chance to meet, talk about what’s bringing you to counselling and see whether working together feels right for you.

  • Yes. Online counselling, via a secure video platform, works much like face-to-face sessions, with a designated time set aside just for you. It’s important that you can be in a private, comfortable space on your own, where you feel safe to talk openly.

  • My counselling room is located in Wincheap, Canterbury. There is parking available and access to a toilet. If you have specific accessibility needs, please get in touch — I’ll do my best to accommodate or suggest alternatives.

The Counselling Process

  • Each session is your space to talk about whatever feels important to you. Sometimes we’ll explore thoughts and feelings around a particular issue; other times, we might look at patterns, coping strategies or new perspectives. There’s no right or wrong way to use the time.

  • Everyone’s needs are different so there’s no set number of sessions. Some people find a few weeks helpful for a specific issue while others choose longer-term support. We’ll regularly review how things are going to make sure the pace and focus feel right for you.

  • Not at all. If you need time away for rest, travel or other commitments, just let me know in advance. Together we can make a plan so your counselling continues to feel consistent and supportive, even with breaks built in.

  • I understand that life can be unpredictable. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please give at least 24 hours’ notice. Sessions cancelled with less notice are still charged at the full fee.

  • I don’t offer counselling by phone, text or email outside of our scheduled sessions. You’re welcome to get in touch if you need to rearrange an appointment or have a practical question. I check messages and emails between 9am and 5pm on weekdays and will reply as soon as I can, though it may not be immediate.

Confidentiality & Boundaries

  • Yes. What you share in counselling remains private. The only exceptions are if I believe you or someone else is at serious risk of harm, or if I’m legally required to share information. If that ever arose, I would always aim to talk with you about it first.

  • I don’t make notes during our sessions but I may write brief notes afterwards to help me remember important details. Note-taking is kept to a minimum to protect your identity. All notes are stored securely, used only for my professional reference and never shared with anyone else. You’re welcome to see your notes at any time if you wish.

  • Sometimes people need support beyond what counselling alone can provide. If that’s the case, I can guide you towards other services or resources that may be more appropriate for your needs.

Comfort & Understanding

  • My role is to listen openly and without judgement. I may not have lived your exact experiences but together we can explore what matters to you, at your pace, in a safe and supportive space.

  • That’s completely okay. We can arrange the seating so it feels more comfortable or focus elsewhere during our conversations. The most important thing is that you feel safe and at ease.