What is Counselling?

​I believe that counselling is about providing a space for you to feel safe and supported, knowing that what you talk about will be kept confidential. It is a place to explore thoughts, emotions and behaviours that may be having a negative impact on your life, and look at ways that you can improve your well-being. Common reasons for seeking counselling include relationship breakdowns, stress (work, education, home, etc), low confidence, as well as mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression.
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One of the most important elements of counselling is the therapeutic relationship that we will build together. I will become an impartial person in your life whilst you are going through therapy. Many clients have said to me that this was one of the most beneficial aspects of counselling for them, as they felt that there was no judgement on what they shared and therefore were able to discuss and explore their reasons for seeking counselling at more depth. In fact, a term used by some counsellors and therapists is relational depth, which describes a deep psychological contact between 2 people, in this case, the counsellor and client. 

I aim to facilitate you in gaining insight and clarity into elements of your life that, at the moment, you may be feeling stuck with, and are having an impact on your mood, thoughts and behaviour; this is a very common reason why people seek counselling, with research showing that counselling can help people develop introspective skills to overcome this. 

I believe that by offering you an environment that feels safe, authentic and free from judgement, you will start to develop useful skills and resources that will enable you to move on in your life. ​

What isn't counselling?

Counselling is unlikely to give you an instant solution to issues. However, it does provide an opportunity to gain a better understanding of the ways in which positive changes can encourage you to explore difficulties in your life and work towards resolving personal issues.

Counselling is not an advice-giving service. It is a supportive service that allows you to gain an understanding of yourself through self-exploration of emotions, thoughts and behaviours.

Counselling will require a willingness from you to make positive changes in your life in order for the work to be as beneficial as possible. However, the fact that you are exploring a counselling website would suggest that there is a willingness or curiosity in pursuing counselling, and that maybe it's time to start the steps that will have a positive effect on your life. If so, please give me a call as I may be able to help you to get more clarity on your options, whether counselling is right for you at this time and what the next step is.

How long will I need in counselling?

This varies from person to person and is very hard to answer. Some people benefit from short-term counselling (6–12 sessions) to focus on a specific issue, while others benefit more from longer-term therapy over several months or even years, for deeper self-exploration and personal development. There’s no right or wrong answer; it all depends on your needs, goals, and how the counselling process unfolds for you.

We will regularly review how you’re feeling about therapy and adjust the number of sessions as needed. Mental health support isn’t about rushing to a finish line; it’s about making sure you have the time and space you need.​​

How do I pay for my counselling?

​​Face to Face Counselling: You can either pay via BACS or cash on the day (or the day prior to your session).

Telephone Counselling: You would need to pay for this option via BACS. I would require payment the day before, and I will not contact you unless I have received payment.
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Online Counselling: You would need to pay for this option via BACS. I would require payment the day before, and will not contact you unless I have received payment.

​The counselling prices are listed on the Counselling Options & Cost page.

How do you look after your mental health being a counsellor?

​I prioritise my wellbeing through regular clinical supervision, ensuring both my clients' safety and my own. I also engage in CPD (continued professional development) to stay up to date with counselling theories and best practices.

Outside of work, I recharge by going on walks with family, sailing my dinghy, and riding my motorbike. These activities help me offload, relax, and maintain perspective; after all, I can’t explore healthy habits with clients if I don’t maintain them myself… As they say, practice what you preach!

What issues can counselling help with?

Counselling can support your mental health and emotional wellbeing in many ways. People seek therapy for a variety of reasons, from anxiety, stress, and depression to relationship struggles, grief, and low self-esteem. Sometimes, you might not have a specific issue but feel lost, overwhelmed, or unsure of your direction in life. Counselling provides a safe and confidential space to explore these feelings without judgement.

As an integrative humanistic counsellor, I work in a way that focuses on you as a whole person: your thoughts, emotions, experiences, and relationships. My approach is flexible, meaning I tailor our work together based on what you need, rather than following a one-size-fits-all model.

Do I need to have a specific issue to come to counselling?

No, you don’t need to be in crisis or have a clearly defined problem to benefit from therapy. Sometimes, you might just feel stuck or unsettled, unsure why things feel difficult. That’s completely valid, and counselling can help you gain clarity and insight into your thoughts and emotions.

Counselling isn’t just about working through distress; it can also be a space for personal growth, self-discovery, and building resilience. Whether you want to process past experiences, improve your relationships, or simply feel more connected to yourself, therapy offers a place to explore whatever is meaningful to you.

What happens in a counselling session?

​Each counselling session is a space for you to talk openly about whatever is on your mind. There’s no pressure to bring something specific, you can speak about anything that feels important, whether that’s mental health challenges, life changes, stress, relationships, or anything else.

As your counsellor, my role is to listen with empathy and without judgement. I won’t tell you what to do or give direct advice, but I will support you in exploring your thoughts and feelings, helping you understand patterns in your life and make choices that feel right for you. Therapy is a collaborative process, and our work will evolve at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

Is everything I say confidential?

Confidentiality is a core part of counselling. What you share in therapy stays between us, creating a secure and private space for you to speak freely. However, there are some legal and ethical limits to confidentiality to keep you and others safe. This is something that we will chat about during our first session together so you fully understand what this means, and feel safe and able to open up.

Confidentiality is what makes therapy a unique space, one where you can express yourself without fear of judgement or external influence.

What if I’m nervous about starting counselling?

​Feeling nervous before your first counselling session is completely normal. Reaching out for support is a big step, and it’s okay to have questions or uncertainties. You don’t have to come in knowing exactly what to say, your therapy journey will unfold naturally, and I will support you in feeling at ease.

The first session, which I call the initial consultation, is a chance to see how you feel about working together. You can ask any questions about the counselling process, talk about what’s brought you to therapy, or simply get a feel for whether the space feels right for you. There’s no obligation to continue if it doesn’t feel like the right fit.

What if I don’t feel like we’re the right fit?

The therapeutic relationship is a key part of counselling. You should feel comfortable and supported by your therapist, as this connection is what allows meaningful work to happen. If, for any reason, you don’t feel we’re the right match, that’s completely okay. Counselling is personal, and it’s important to find a therapist who feels like the right fit for you.

If you decide you’d like to explore other options, I may be able to offer guidance on finding another professional who may better meet your needs. Therapy is about your well-being, and you deserve to work with someone who feels right for you.

​What if I get emotional or don’t know what to say?

Counselling is a space where all emotions are welcome. It’s completely natural to feel emotional at times, and there’s no pressure to hold anything back. Whether you cry, get frustrated, or struggle to find words, I will support you through whatever comes up.

Sometimes, people worry about having ‘nothing to say’ in therapy. That’s okay too. Silence can be a powerful part of the process, and we can work through moments of uncertainty together. Therapy isn’t about performing or having all the answers; it’s about creating a space where you can simply be, at your own pace.