How many sessions will I need?
This is perhaps the most common question clients ask. There is no set number that will work best for everyone. I have worked with clients for whom a handful of sessions have achieved what they were looking for, and with others where we have continued for 30 or more. The key point here is that the decision will always be yours. Endings can sometimes be difficult and so we will discuss the prospect periodically, but I will never tell you that need more nor will I tell you that you're done. We'll end when you feel that the time is right.
How long are the sessions?
A standard session is 50 minutes long which allows a 'clean' transition between clients. I will always let you know when we are approaching the end of our time and we would not usually extend the session unless there were exceptional circumstances. If there was something you felt was going to take longer to explore, we can agree to a longer session but this is best done in advance rather than at the time.
How often should we have sessions?
Once a week is usually a good rhythm. This allows processing time and helps to prevent overload. If you really feel that you need more, we can discuss this and work out what might work best.
Can I contact you between sessions if I need you?
You can text, call or email at any time regarding arrangements or if you feel you need an extra session and my work phone is usually on from 9am to 9pm. I am not however a crisis counsellor and if you feel you need immediate support, I would advise contacting one of the agencies listed here who specialise in immediate needs.
How long will you keep my notes and are they secure?
My insurers require me to keep client notes for a period of 7 years, after which they will be destroyed. All notes are anonymised and kept in a password protected cloud file. For more details see my Privacy Policy.
After I've ended, do I need to wait a set period of time before I can come back?
No. If you have had counselling at an agency, this is sometimes the case but that is usually driven by waiting lists. If we agree to end but you change your mind shortly afterwards, if I have availability, you can come straight back.
