Getting to know each other
The first session is about us getting to know each other, and to have space to ask any questions you may have, or talk about any fears or worries around counselling. It can be useful to find out a little about what brought you to counselling too, although I understand it can feel very difficult to open up to a stranger when you first meet, so we go at the pace that you are comfortable with.
Free 30 minute consultation
I offer a free 30 minute introductory telephone call for us to have an initial conversation and decide if we want to go ahead. It is really important that you feel comfortable, and absolutely ok if you decide not to go ahead. Counselling is an individual journey, and you usually know if you feel comfortable and safe. Equally, I will let you know if I don’t feel I am the right therapist for you as it is important we both feel we can work together.
I am happy to work in the evenings and early mornings if this is helpful. I usually explain, during our initial call, a bit about the type of therapy I offer, how it might be to work together and what you can expect from me. Primarily, I aim to offer a safe and confidential space for you to talk about anything at all that you need to. Often, people like a bit of time and space to think about working together after an initial call, and that is no problem. I work at your pace and understand that it can be a big step to decide to start the counselling journey. If you feel happy and you would like to begin working together, we would fill in a simple contract together, go through some formalities around confidentiality and safeguarding, and gather a little background information, We would then begin our journey together.
