MY FAQS.
Please see the list below for full information on my services.
I would like to book an appointment with you, so what should I do?
Counselling is a talking therapy. Many people seek the support of a professional counsellor to talk about their problems and find ways to manage their difficulties. By attending counselling, you are given a safe and confidential platform to talk about issues surrounding your thoughts, feelings, emotions and behaviours.
When you feel that you are ready to contact me, please use the contact form on my website and I will be in touch with you as soon as I can. I offer a free phone call to have an informal conversation about why you are looking for counselling support with and how best I can help you.
If you do decide to use my counselling services, please note that I must have your GP details in order to commence sessions. This is a part of my safeguarding policy.
You will be in control of how many sessions you decide to have and how frequently. I work with clients from all walks of life. I am not here to judge anything you disclose in sessions, I will simply listen and reflect on what you talk about.
What is your availability & how much do you charge?
Practice Opening Times:
Monday 10:00 - 20:00
Tuesday 10:00 - 20:00
Wednesday 10:00 - 20:00
Thursday 10:00 - 20:00
Friday 10:00 - 16:00
Charges (2023):
Online sessions - £60
Telephone sessions - £60
'Walk, Talk & Refresh' sessions - £65
Please note that all fees are due at the end of each session and must be settled by BACS.
*My prices may be subject to an annual increase inline with the new tax year.
Are you a qualified counsellor?
Yes, I am a qualified counsellor. I am a registered member of the BACP. This stands for the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy.
This means that I adhere and work to the BACP's Ethical Framework, which enables me to work both professionally and safely with my clients. For more information, please visit www.bacp.co.uk
I am also a verified counsellor through both the Black and Asian Therapy Network (BAANT) and the Hampshire Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy (HACP). My private work is fully insured with Howdens Insurance Services.
What professional qualifications do you hold?
Professional qualifications:
I hold a Professional Level 4 Diploma in Humanistic Counselling from the University of Chichester along with my Level 2 & 3 certificates in Counselling. I also hold a Masters in Cultural Management from the University of Winchester. I actively attend professional workshops and seminars for counselling professionals. These include:
MIND UK CPD - 'Mental Health in the Workplace' certificate
Mermaids UK CPD - 'Supporting Transgender Clients' training
MBSR CPD - 'Introduction to Mindfulness' certificate
BACP 'How to do counselling online: Coronavirus Primer' certificate
'Taking Therapy Outdoors' certificate
'Cross Cultural Counselling; Working with Difference' training
'Working with Fear & Trauma' training
'Working with Anger' training
'Working with Guilt & Shame' training
'Professional Support for Climate Change Anxiety' training
'Therapy & Social Change' training with Mick Copper
'Women & Gambling related-harm' training (GamCare UK)
What will happen during our first session?
Your first session will give you the opportunity to talk to me, as your potential counsellor. I am an integrative humanistic counsellor. I am non-directive, which means that session content is led by you. I am not here to 'fix' you. You are the expert of your own experiences and decision making. I will simply listen and reflect on what you disclose. My style of work does not include any form of physical touch between myself and my clients. If I think it appropriate I may suggest some 'homework' tasks for you to try outside of sessions but these are not compulsory to complete.
Prior to your first session, I will ask you to complete a 'Client & Counsellor Working Agreement'. This document must be returned before we can start sessions. At the start of your first session, we will verbally contract, which includes setting professional boundaries and discussing confidentiality. We will look at what areas of your life you feel you would like to explore in more depth. If we are both happy to proceed, we will schedule another session.
Do you require session payment upfront?
Yes, I require your first payment upfront to book your session. This can be paid by BACS transfer. Full details on how this and all future payments need to be settled, are stated in our 'Client & Counsellor Working Agreement' which I will ask you to read and electronically sign, before our sessions commence.
What is your session cancellation policy?
I understand that it may not be possible for you to commit to a scheduled session.
If you notify me with more than 48 hours’ notice, no charge will apply if you wish to move or reschedule your session.
If you notify me within 48 hours or less, of your scheduled session, then you will be invoiced for the full rate for the appointment.
If you are not present for two consecutive session (phone or online) without contact, I will assume you are no longer able to attend sessions, and I will look to fill your allocated session time (if fixed).
How do you keep my data safe?
I take the protection of your personal information extremely seriously. My website is hosted by Wix.com. Please see my online ‘Privacy Policy’ for full information on how I use your data from my website.
Full information on how I collate, store and process your personal information from our sessions together, will be outlined clearly, in the 'Client & Counsellor Working Agreement' which you will be sent prior to working with me. I am registered with the ICO and am fully GDPR compliant.
Contact me today.
