Will what I talk about stay between us?
Yes. All sessions are confidential
Counselling is a confidential process and my first consideration is safety, especially yours. If I become concerned that there may be a high of significant harm to you or someone else I will act accordingly, always keeping confidentiality as much as possible. At our first session we will discuss this in more detail, where I will explain the exceptions to confidentiality in greater detail.
Counselling sessions will be held in a quiet room, away from disturbance or anyone who could accidentally overhear.
Coaching tends not to include the same depth of emotional exploration so it is often possible to meet in a more public place such as a hotel lounge for these sessions.
And of course you are more than welcome to meet with me in the Counselling room.
Can I Have Online Video Sessions?
Yes, via the Google Meet platform.
Video and phone sessions became the norm as the pandemic made it necessary to work remotely and these sessions continue to be popular and effective.
Many clients actively choose online video as it fits in with their busy work and family life. Some people find it more comfortable to be in their own space.
Clients log into a pre-arranged Google Meet session from a quiet space in their home where they feel comfortable and can speak freely and confidentially.
People have used phone sessions when they have to fit them in with a busy work day or if they need to leave the house but cannot come for an in-person session.
Can I Have Face-To-Face Sessions ?
Yes, Absolutely
I hold face to face sessions in my home.
In the interests of everyone's health face to face sessions are available and the most popular option.
If you are unwell with a cold, flu or any covid-type symptoms I ask that you let me know well in advance (at least 24 hours) so I can arrange either a video session or reschedule.
How long do sessions last?
Counselling sessions last for up to 50 minutes.
Therapy works best if you can commit to regular, usually weekly sessions. If you are unable to commit to this, then I am happy to discuss other options with you to meet your individual needs.
Integrated Coaching vs Counselling: What's the difference?
Generally speaking counselling seeks to alleviate distress and, by helping the Client to understand themselves, their emotions and how past experiences impact the present enable their healing, ability to cope with life and their growth as a person.
Coaching is tuned more to the present and future; identifying goals and barriers; discovering and rediscovering the Client's own values and priorities. There are times when emotional understanding is a key factor to progress.
Imagine your life is like a lake.
Counselling is like a deep diver who goes right to the depths of the lake and explores carefully and in detail.
Coaching is more like a boat on the waters' surface, going in a definite direction. The boat is just as involved in the lake but in a different way and sometimes the rowers will dive someway into the lake to discover ways to improve the boat's journey.
What is BACP?
The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy is one of the main professional associations for Counsellors in the UK. I am a Registered Member of the BACP, which means I adhere to their Ethical Framework.
Part of my responsibilities as a registered member of the BACP include attending regular Supervision, and continuing to expand my knowledge by taking part in continuing professional development. I am listed on the BACP's Therapist Directory.
You can read more about the BACP on their website, and their Commitment to Clients charter outlines the values and ethics that members of the BACP abide by.
What is Supervision?
Supervision is a requirement for all BACP registered therapists.
It helps ensure I am working ethically and in ways to best help my clients.
Supervision provides me with the opportunity to reflect in depth about all aspects of my practice. It helps to ensure that my work is safe, ethical and as effective as possible.
Supervision is beneficial to both the counsellor and the clients they see. It is compulsory for all members of BACP.
I have more questions about counselling, where can I find answers?
Please feel free to contact me with any further questions you may have.