Is counselling beneficial?
Many people wonder whether counselling will be helpful for them, especially if they’re not sure where to begin, what they want to talk about, or feel that their difficulties aren’t “serious enough.”
Counselling offers a confidential, supportive space where you will be accepted as you are and can bring whatever is on your mind, without needing clear answers or goals from the start.
Speaking with someone outside your everyday life can provide a different perspective and a space to reflect, which can be especially useful when things feel complex or stuck.
For some, counselling offers a chance to pause and check in with themselves. For others, it’s a place to talk things through, feel heard, and make sense of what’s been building up over time.
Sessions are shaped around you and what feels most helpful, moving at a pace that is comfortable for you. Many people find that having this regular space helps them feel more grounded, supported, and better able to respond to life’s challenges in a way that feels right for them.
What happens in a counselling session?
We talk together. You might arrive with something specific you’d like to focus on, or we may simply see where the conversation goes.
I won’t tell you what to do or make decisions for you. Instead, I’ll listen carefully and ask gentle questions to support reflection on what’s going on for you and what feels important.
At times, I may offer gentle suggestions during a session, such as a creative activity like mental imagery or a grounding exercise. These are always optional, and we’ll only try what feels right for you.
Each person and each session is different, which is one of the things I love about therapy. We’ll work together in a way that feels comfortable and helpful for you.
Read my blog post: 12 Useful Things to Know About Counselling
Will counselling definitely help me?
Counselling can’t offer guarantees, but I know from experience that it can be life-changing, sometimes in unexpected ways.
What I can say is that many people find it meaningful and sometimes unexpectedly helpful, as new perspectives and possibilities emerge over time.
Finding the right fit matters. No single approach or counsellor works for everyone, which is why the initial consultation appointment gives us a chance to meet each other, and decide if and how we’d like to work together.
Counselling is also an evolving process. I’ll regularly check in with you to see how you feel the therapy is going, so we can adapt our approach as needed so that it continues to support you in the best possible way.
Read my blog post: The here and now, What is Interpersonal Therapy, Discover Existential Therapy, What Is Transactional Analysis and What Therapy Can Teach Us About Ourselves
What can I expect from an initial consultation appointment?
I view the first session as a consultation – a chance to meet, talk about what’s brought you here, and see how it feels to work together.
We’ll take things at your pace, and you’re free to share only what feels comfortable. There’s space for questions, reflection, and exploring what you’re hoping for from counselling, and to decide whether it feels right to continue.
How frequent are the sessions?
Sessions are normally weekly or fortnightly, as you will find that you will make more progress if you attend regularly, but different intervals can be negotiated.
How many sessions can I have?
This is up to you. We can work together for a small number of sessions, or something longer-term.
Do you offer online or phone counselling?
Yes. I offer both online and phone counselling, and you’re welcome to choose the option that suits you best. Online sessions are held via Microsoft Teams, which is free to use and provides encrypted, secure connections. You can join a session using the Teams app or directly through your web browser.
Once you confirm the appointment, I will provide you with the waiting room link via email. At the time of your appointment, you can use the link to access your session.
Read my blog post: Discover Online Counselling – Get Support Wherever You Are
Do you also offer in-person sessions?
Yes. I offer in-person Walk-and-Talk sessions in Leazes Park, Newcastle. These sessions take place outdoors and involve walking side by side, which some people find more comfortable than sitting indoors.
Being outside can also feel grounding for those who prefer a less formal setting. I also offer a blended approach, and you’re welcome to choose the format that feels most comfortable for you.
Read my blog post: Walking Side by Side – Discovering the Benefits of Walk-and-Talk Therapy
How much do the sessions cost?
The initial consultation session is £25 and subsequent therapy sessions are £50. To secure your appointment, please make the payment in advance. All sessions are 50 minutes long (visit my Services & fees page to find out more), and I review my fees annually.
Do you offer low-cost sessions?
I offer affordable counselling sessions, with concession appointments for those on low income. Please reach out to discuss this with me.
Do you charge for cancelled sessions?
I understand that life can be unpredictable, so if you need to cancel a session, please give as much notice as you can. Cancellations made with at least 24 hours’ notice are free, a £25 expenses fee applies for cancellations within 24 hours, and the full fee is charged if a session is missed without notice.
How often would my sessions be, and how many will I need?
To support continuity, sessions usually take place weekly or fortnightly. Everyone’s needs are different, so we’ll talk together about what feels right to begin with, or you may prefer to keep things open-ended.
You’re free to end counselling at any point. I simply ask for at least one session’s notice so we have time to bring the work to a thoughtful and supportive close.
Do you offer counselling to young people?
Yes, I do. I work with adults and young people aged 16 and over. Sessions are a safe and confidential space where you can talk about whatever is on your mind, at a pace that feels comfortable for you.
If it feels helpful, a parent or caregiver can join the first session. After that, sessions are usually one-to-one, with your privacy and independence in mind.
Read my blog post: Development Through the Lifespan – Understanding Growth & Young Adulthood
Do you offer counselling for neurodivergent clients?
Yes, I do. I have experience working with autistic clients and clients with ADHD. My approach is neurodiversity-affirming and tailored to each person.
Sessions are flexible and responsive, offering a space where you can be yourself, feel accepted and understood, and explore supportive ways forward.
Read my blog post: Exploring Autism, Understanding the Autistic Experience, Adult ADHD, Neurodiversity, Masking and Burnout and Neurodiversity and anxiety
If your question is not answered here, please feel free to get in touch.
Let’s talk
I’d love to explore working with you.