Is everything you say to a counsellor confidential?
Counselling sessions are confidential and all that is shared stays within the counselling room. The only time a counsellor might need to share anything that has been said would be in exceptional circumstances and this would only be done after discussing any concerns.
What makes counselling different from talking to a family member or a good friend?
While it’s always good to have someone close to you to confide in, you may not always want to talk about difficult, challenging or embarrassing issues with someone who has known you for a long time. Counsellors are trained to help you to assess how you are feeling and explore your options in an effective and efficient way.
How long does counselling last?
A counselling session typically lasts for 50 minutes. As a guide, counselling usually continues for between six to twelve weeks, although you are free to stop at any time. During the first six weeks, it is a good idea to have weekly sessions to help to build a rapport between counsellor and client(s). For couples, the first session will be together, followed by individual sessions, before coming together again in week four to continue the therapy.
What happens in a counselling session?
We will start by talking through what you hope to achieve from the counselling sessions and what has brought you here. We will unpick the issues you bring and may use different approaches to explore what has gone on in the past, what changes you would like to see and how you can move forward. Whatever happens you will be listened to without judgement and your lived experience and choices will be treated respectfully.
Do you offer online counselling?
I am happy to offer counselling online using Doxy.Me. Online counselling can be an option that allows people to access counselling more flexibly, to meet their needs, at times that may suit better and without having to travel. A good internet connection is necessary and a private place where privacy can be maintained.
How do I know I’ll get on with the counsellor?
Counsellors come from all walks of life and bring their own unique experiences to the therapeutic process. The most important thing for the counselling relationship to work is that you feel comfortable and are able to trust your counsellor. For counselling to be effective, the relationship between the client(s) and counsellor must work and it is for this reason that I offer a no-obligation, 30 minute telephone call to give clients the opportunity to decide if they feel I am the right counsellor for them.
How do you know if counselling works?
It is important to commit to the counselling process if you want to reap the rewards that change through communication and understanding can bring. There are very few times in our lives when we have the opportunity to be listened to unconditionally while we work through concerns, worries, feelings, anxiety and issues that we are finding overwhelming or that we are struggling to manage. While counselling isn’t a miracle cure, it can offer support and hope in managing challenging times.
What now?
You can text or phone
07432 054848
or email me to arrange an initial conversation or a first appointment - talktohannah123@icloud.com.