FAQ

Counselling

Counselling provides a safe and confidential space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors with a trained professional. During the sessions, you will have the opportunity to gain a greater understanding of yourself and work towards positive changes in your life. Counselling is self-guided, meaning you can discuss whatever you want to without any obligation to talk about things you're not comfortable with.

Each counselling session typically lasts for 60 minutes. This allows enough time to delve into the issues you want to address while maintaining a manageable timeframe.

Yes, you have the option to choose between face-to-face and online counselling sessions. You can choose to have face-to-face sessions in a therapy space or outdoors in Plymouth. Online counselling is conducted through a secure platform, providing you with flexibility and convenience.

Yes, I offer 1 free place for anyone on benefits who is unable to work, maximum 15 sessions.

I offer reduced rates for people on low incomes/benefits. Reduced-cost sessions are also available for students and trainee counsellors.

While I work in all areas, I specialise in working with LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent people around identity, transition, depression, anxiety and relationships.

The number of sessions varies for each individual and depends on your unique circumstances and goals. There are no set number unless that is what you request. Sessions are open ended, you can choose when you want to stop. We can discuss the duration of counselling during the initial session. We will review our work where you will have the opportunity to talk about reducing the frequency of sessions or ending sessions. If you are accessing free counselling, you will get up to 15 sessions. This allows me to offer a free place to as many people as possible.

If you're feeling overwhelmed, confused, anxious, or struggling with various aspects of your life, counselling can be beneficial. It provides a supportive and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your thoughts and emotions. If you are unsure, you can book a free 30-minute consultation to help you decide.

Yes, confidentiality is a fundamental aspect of the counselling process. As a registered member of the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society, I adhere to their strict code of ethics, which includes maintaining client confidentiality. There are certain limitations to confidentiality, such as situations where there is a risk of harm to yourself or others, but these will be discussed in detail during the initial session.

To request an initial free 30-minute consultation, you can fill out the form on the website or call directly. This consultation is an opportunity for you to learn more about how counselling can help you, discuss your needs and goals, and ask any questions you may have.

Yes, you have the freedom to end counselling whenever you feel it's appropriate for you. However, it is recommended to have an ending session to reflect on the progress made and ensure a sense of closure. If you still desire some support but at a decreased frequency, we can discuss options that best suit your needs.

No, you will never be forced to talk about anything you're not ready or comfortable discussing. Counselling is a collaborative process, and you have control over what you choose to share. The pace of the sessions is determined by your readiness, and you will be supported to explore topics at a pace that feels right for you.

Finding the right counsellor is crucial for a successful therapeutic experience. It's essential to choose someone with whom you feel comfortable and can establish a trusting relationship. During the initial session or consultation, you can assess whether the counsellor's approach, personality, and expertise align with your needs and goals. Trust your intuition!

1 to 1 Support

While there is an element of talking things through in 1 to 1 support, it is more focused on practical steps to move forward in life if you are feeling overwhelmed or stuck, or just need to find the correct support. 1 to 1 support can help you make a plan, reach out to other organisations, have confidence to communicate and deal with professionals, public sector services and companies, and make life a little easier.

Sessions last 60 minutes which gives us time to talk and carry out any practical tasks such as making phone calls or filling in forms.

That is up to you! You can have any number of sessions up to a maximum of 15. Some people only need a few sessions to get back on track, others need all 15.

Yes, you have the option to choose between face-to-face and online sessions. You can choose to have face-to-face sessions in a safe space in Plymouth. Online sessions are conducted through a secure platform, providing you with flexibility and convenience.

Yes, I offer 1 free place for anyone on benefits who is unable to work, maximum 15 sessions.

I offer reduced rates for people on low incomes/benefits.

To request an initial free 30-minute consultation, you can fill out the form on the website or call directly. This consultation is an opportunity for you to learn more about how 1 to 1 support can help you, discuss your needs and goals, and ask any questions you may have.

While I work in all areas, I specialise in working with LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent people around identity, transition, depression, anxiety and relationships.

Yes, confidentiality is a fundamental aspect of the 1 to 1 support process. There are certain limitations to confidentiality, such as situations where there is a risk of harm to yourself or others, but these will be discussed in detail during the initial session.