FAQs
What can I expect in my first session?
Your first session is a chance to get to know each other. We’ll talk about what’s brought you to therapy, what you’d like to get out of it, and how we might work together. There’s no pressure to share everything at once, we’ll go at your pace.
What Experience Do You Have?
I am a qualified integrative counsellor with a Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling. I am a member of BACP with extensive experience in grief and bereavement work with the NHS across Cheshire East, as well as experience supporting women in crisis in Greater Manchester through my sessional work with the Stockport Women’s Centre.
My varied life experience and earlier careers in recruitment, cancer charities, and fertility-focused PR have given me a wide perspective on the many ways people seek support during difficult times. I love what I do and feel it is a privilege to be able to use my counselling training and life experience in this way.
I also know personally what it is like to need therapy. Having experienced anticipatory grief and cumulative bereavements, I understand how disorienting loss can be. My own experiences, together with years of counselling training, allow me to meet my clients with genuine warmth, empathy, calmness, and a forward-looking approach.
How long will I need therapy?
There’s no fixed answer. Some people find a few sessions give them the clarity and support they need, while others choose to stay longer and explore things in more depth. We’ll review as we go so therapy always feels useful and relevant to you. As a guideline a minimum of 6 sessions would be an ideal starting point with a review at session 3 to see how things are going. However, this is just a guideline.
How long is each session?
Sessions last 50 minutes and usually take place weekly at the same time. However, we can discuss what schedule works for you.
Is everything I say confidential?
Yes. What you share stays between us. The only exceptions are if I believe you or someone else is at serious risk of harm, or if I’m legally required to share information. I’ll always try to talk to you first if this ever became necessary. I would also give you a contract with this clearly outlined before we start.
Do I need to prepare before starting therapy?
Not at all. You don’t need to have the “right words” or know exactly what you want to say. Many people start by simply saying, “I don’t know where to begin.” That’s ok, we’ll take it from there.
What if I’m not sure therapy is for me?
That’s completely normal. You don’t have to decide right away. Many people book an initial session to see how it feels and then choose whether to continue. A good therapist would never take it personally if they were not quite right for you and would help refer you to someone they think would be more suitable if they can.