What to Expect

You can expect a calm, safe space where you can talk at your own pace, without pressure, labels, or expectations. I will help you to feel heard, understood, and accepted just as you are. You don’t need to have the right words or even know what’s wrong when you begin; simply showing up is enough, and together we can take things one step at a time.

It’s also important to know that I am not here to give advice or tell you what to do. My role is to listen and support you by offering a warm, non-judgemental therapeutic relationship in which you can explore what’s going on for you.

Finally, not every counsellor and client will always be the right fit, and that’s okay. It isn’t a reflection on either person; it’s just part of being human. If, after a few sessions, you don’t feel connected or on the same page, I encourage you to bring it up so we can discuss it together. And if things still don’t feel right, moving on is absolutely okay. What matters most is that you feel able to show up, be honest, and do the work that supports your wellbeing.

Milestones

Assessment Call

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It begins with a free 20-minute phone call. We will discuss what you hope to gain from coming to counselling and explore possible goals and ways of working together. I will collect some information and ask you some questions to help determine your current situation. This conversation also helps us decide together whether counselling feels right for you at this time, and whether I am the right counsellor for you. If we both agree to proceed, we can then book your first session.

The first session will begin with a review of the counselling contract. This is a two-way agreement that sets out what you can expect from me and what I will expect from you. It will outline both the limits of the therapeutic relationship, including confidentiality and practical matters such as the number of agreed sessions, fees, cancellation policy, along with the time, duration and location of each session.

First Session

Review

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After 3 or 4 sessions, a brief review will be conducted. This will be a collaborative conversation to reflect on progress, the therapeutic relationship, and whether any goals or approaches need adjusting. It is not an evaluation of you, but a supportive check-in to make sure the work continues to meet your needs. Depending on the length of the relationship, more than one review may take place. Reviews give both the client and counsellor the opportunity to reflect on how best to use the remaining sessions and, where appropriate, agree on an extension.

As the agreed number of sessions comes to an end, work will focus on helping you feel confident in supporting yourself without ongoing counselling. This may include developing a self-care routine, identifying other sources of support, and reflecting on the progress you have made since beginning counselling.

Ending

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