Frequently Asked Questions

How many sessions am I likely to need?

Everyone is different and so I'm unable to give a standard answer to this question. It depends on a range of factors including the complexity of the problem, the support you have outside of counselling and so on. 

However, you may have a limitation on the number of sessions you can attend, in which case we would discuss this at the start of counselling to ensure that we have realistic objectives given the time frame.

How will I know when I'm ready to end?

Again there isn't a standard response I can give. But my collaborative approach to counselling means that we will regularly reflect on how counselling is helping and eventually how you feel about ending.

Will you be giving me advice?

I work on the premise that you know yourself far better than I will ever know you, and that giving advice in this context doesn't really make sense . I see my role as working with you to explore and make sense of the issues that are affecting you. We can then look at ideas for the future alongside your resources and support network to think about options that are realistic and manageable for you.

Glossary

British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)

The largest professional body representing counselling and psychotherapy in the UK

Attachment Theory

Focuses on attachment bonds made with early care givers and how these influence our ability to form, maintain, and cope with the loss of, relationships in later life

Cognitivie Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Focuses on thoughts and underlying beliefs and evaluations, and how these influence our feelings and behaviours.

Psychodynamic Therapy

Focuses on unconscious processes in early development and how these evolve and manifest throughout life stages

Systemic Therapy

Focuses on the individual as part of a 'system' e.g. a family system or organisational system and looks at patterns and roles within various systems and how the system copes with change