FAQs

What is counselling/psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy is a broad term used to describe talking therapies, including counselling. Both counsellors and psychotherapists provide a service for those looking for support and treatment for a wide range of mental health and emotional concerns. 

How you connect with the counsellor or psychotherapist you choose can make an impact on how successful the treatment is. It is also helpful to have a little knowledge of the different therapies on offer. Many different therapies can be used by counsellors and psychotherapists, some involve looking at past relationships and experiences to make sense of them, and others involve looking at the 'here and now'.

How do I know if I need counselling/psychotherapy?

Only you can decide whether you wish to try counselling or psychotherapy. Just talking to someone confidentially who is not a friend or family member can make all the difference. Counselling provides a regular time for you to explore your feelings and talk about any problems you're experiencing. A counsellor can help you develop better ways of coping, allowing you to move forward and get the most out of life.

How can I be assured of a practitioners' professionalism?

By choosing a therapist registered with a professional body you can be reassured that they have met the standards of training and experience required by that organisation. Most professional bodies will also have a Code of Ethics that outlines the way their members should work, and a complaints process to follow if things don’t work out as planned - so you know you’re in good hands.

Some professional body registers are accredited by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA). The PSA sets standards for organisations that register health and social care practitioners in unregulated professions, such as counselling and psychotherapy. By joining the Accredited Register Network the professional body is demonstrating its commitment to the PSA’s standards. 

Visit this professional bodies page for more information

How long does each counselling session last?

Each session will usually last 50 minutes or one hour depending on your chosen counsellor or psychotherapist. However, this is often flexible and should be discussed with your therapist before attending the first session.

How regularly will I see my counsellor or psychotherapist?

Many counsellors and psychotherapists offer weekly sessions, however, this can vary depending on the type of therapy and your personal requirements.

Can I have counselling online or by telephone?

Lots of counsellors and psychotherapists offer online and telephone counselling if you'd rather not see them face to face. This is especially appropriate during the current Coronavirus pandemic.

Do you offer any seminars, workshops or events?

I offer seminars, workshops and events and would encourage you to go along. Please contact me to find out more.

I'm worried about someone else - how do I talk about mental health?

If you're worried about someone else's mental health then you're probably wondering what you can do to help. It can be very difficult to talk about mental health and suggest counselling, so we've created a page with tips on how to handle this sensitive subject. Visit worried about someone else? now to find out more.