top of page

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHAT IS COUNSELLING?

The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy defines therapy or counselling as: "Therapy provides a safe and confidential space for you to talk to a trained professional about your issues and concerns. Your therapist will help you explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviours so you can develop a better understanding of yourself and of others.

A counsellor will not give you their opinions or advice or prescribe medication. They will help you find your own solutions – whether that’s making effective changes in your life or finding ways of coping with your problems."

Counselling is a talking therapy which allows you to talk about your challenges and experiences with a professional. I am trained to listen, explore and sometimes gently challenge you to support your personal growth.

WHAT ARE YOUR FEES?

My fees are £60 for a 50 minute session. I may have some concessionary slots (£45) available if you are struggling financially, so please get in touch if you would like to find out more.
Fees are payable by bank transfer in advance of each session. I am unable to accept cash payment at this time. 

WHAT ARE YOUR QUALIFICATIONS, MEMBERSHIPS AND PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS?

I have the following qualifications:

  • Advanced Diploma in Integrative Counselling (Iron Mill College)

  • Certificate in Counselling (Bristol UWE)

  • Children and Young People’s Mental Health- Level 2 (Bath College)

  • Bristol Mind- Mindline Listener and Peer Support Training

  • SMART Recovery Facilitator Training

 

I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy and I work to the BACP Ethical Framework to ensure that my work is safe and ethical.

 

I attend regular Continued Professional Development Training recently including Working With Complex Trauma, SMART Recovery Facilitator training, Transitioning to Internal Family Systems, Relational Trauma with Carolyn Spring,  Death Cafes with Tina Naldrett, Adult Safeguarding, Safeguarding Children and Young People, Working With Addiction with Phil Harris and working with Gypsy, Roma and Traveller Communities.


I hold a DBS to work with both adults and children.

DO YOU HAVE INSURANCE?

Yes, I have professional liability insurance with Towergate Insurance. 

WHAT CAN I EXPECT?

In our work together, I will bring acceptance and empathy with a relational approach that draws on attachment theory, allowing you to experience a safe, secure, holding relationship where you are able to explore your feelings and experiences without fear of judgement. Alongside exploring thoughts and feelings, I pay close attention to what is happening on a non-verbal level- through physical sensations, body language, tone and facial expression and seek to support your understanding of your mind and body connection. I draw on Polyvagal and trauma informed approaches in our work. 

I work in a relational, attachment informed way, incorporating humanistic ideas and existentialism in my counselling philosophy. 


It is my belief that there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to counselling, there is not one answer or one way that works for every client, but counselling should be an exploration of ideas and an ongoing conversation between counsellor and client to find the best, unique fit for the client. Whilst offering a core or fundamental approach, as outlined above, I will work with you to explore what you would like from counselling. 

WHAT WILL HAPPEN IN OUR FIRST MEETING?

During our first session, I will talk you through our therapeutic contract and confidentiality agreement, and you will have an opportunity to ask me any questions you have about this. In this session, I'd like to find out a bit more about you, what has brought you to counselling, what your expectations are, and what you're hoping to achieve in our work. You will also have the opportunity to ask me any questions you have about how we might work together. 

bottom of page