If you have a question that isn't covered below, please feel free to get in touch.
The first session is a chance for us to begin to get to know each other. It is completely understandable to feel nervous, and you don't need to have anything prepared—just come as you are and we'll go from there. I'll ask about what's brought you to counselling and what you're hoping to get from our time together; it's ok if you don't know. You're also welcome to ask me anything. There's no pressure to share more than you're comfortable with, and we'll work at your pace.
This varies from person to person, and we'll review this together as we go. Some people find a few months helpful for working through a specific issue; others prefer longer-term, open-ended work. This is something we'll discuss and you can decide what feels best for you.
Sessions can vary from week to week depending on what you bring, how you're feeling, and where we are in the process. I might offer reflections, help you to notice patterns, support you to process feelings, or suggest practical tools to try if that feels useful. Whatever happens in a session, it is shaped around your needs and capacity, with us working together collaboratively.
You can end counselling at any time. Wherever possible, I'd encourage us to work towards an ending gradually, rather than stopping abruptly, but if that isn't possible I would ask you to commit to at least one pre-planned ending session, so we have an opportunity to acknowledge and reflect on the work we've done.
Sessions take place at the same time each week. Counselling is most effective when attendance is regular and consistent.
I see clients in-person in Bristol. If online would suit you better, get in touch and we can talk through whether it's the right fit.