How might counselling help?
You might be wondering what counselling is like, or whether talking to someone might help. Counselling offers an opportunity to talk openly about what’s happening in your life, with someone alongside you who’s there to listen and understand.
You might be unsure where to start, or you may already have a sense of what’s going on. We can begin wherever you are.
Sometimes, talking to someone outside your everyday life can help make things feel clearer. Together, we can make sense of what’s going on for you, untangle difficult thoughts and feelings, explore what matters to you, and consider what you’d like to be different in your life.
Over time, counselling can help you understand yourself better, develop greater self-compassion and discover new possibilities for moving forward.
You can read more here: Thinking About Counselling? Here’s What Many People Don’t Expect, What Counselling can offer when life feels stuck, overwhelming, or uncertain
What are counselling sessions like, and how do you work?
We talk together. Sometimes you might come with something specific you’d like to talk about. At other times, we might begin more generally and see where the conversation takes us.
Our conversations are guided by what’s brought you to counselling and what you’re hoping for. We can talk about whatever feels most important to you.
Sessions are collaborative, with room for talking, thinking and silence, too, depending on what feels helpful in the moment.
I work reflectively and flexibly. We can use our conversations to make sense of your experiences, notice patterns that may be difficult to see, and consider what you might want to change or approach differently.
I’ll listen, ask questions and offer reflections or different perspectives where helpful. Sometimes I might gently challenge you to look at things differently, while supporting you in making your own decisions.
We’ll work at a pace that feels comfortable to you. Your thoughts and feedback are always welcome.
Counselling can be a space to make sense of your experiences, develop greater self-compassion and reconnect with what matters to you.
You can read more here: How Person-Centred Therapy Helps, Transactional Analysis: I’m Ok- You’re Ok’, Interpersonal Therapy: Understanding Ourselves Through Relationships, Finding a Way Forward with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Discover Existential Therapy: Finding Meaning
How do we get started?
We can begin with a free 10-minute phone call to talk a little about what’s bringing you to counselling and answer any questions you might have. You’re also welcome to start with a first session.
Do I need to fill in any forms before our first session?
Before we begin, I’ll send you a few forms to read through, including a counselling agreement, a personal details form and a privacy policy. You can take a look at these in your own time before we meet.
What happens in the first session?
We’ll start with what’s brought you to counselling and take the conversation from there. I’ll ask a few questions to get to know you and understand what’s going on for you. We can explore anything that feels important along the way, and you can share as much or as little as feels comfortable for you.
How much do the sessions cost?
Sessions are £50 for 50 minutes, payable by bank transfer before your session. Fees are reviewed annually.
Do you charge for cancelled sessions?
There’s no charge if you cancel with at least 24 hours’ notice. If you need to cancel within 24 hours of your appointment, a £25 late cancellation fee will be charged. If you’re unable to attend without letting me know, the full session fee will be charged.
Do you offer reduced-fee sessions?
A small number of reduced-fee spaces are available for people on a low income. You’re very welcome to get in touch to ask about availability.
Do you also offer in-person sessions?
Yes! I offer in-person walk-and-talk sessions in Leazes Park, where we can talk outdoors while walking side by side. We usually begin with an online or phone session to talk things through and explore what might work best for you. We can also combine different ways of meeting, finding an approach that feels right for you.
You can read more here: Walk-and-Talk Counselling in Newcastle: Talking Things Through Outdoors
Do you offer online or phone counselling?
Yes! I offer both online and phone sessions, so you can choose whichever feels most comfortable for you. Online sessions usually take place via Psychology Today Sessions. Once your appointment is confirmed, I’ll send you a link so you can easily join at your session time, and we’ll be ready to talk.
You can read more here: Discover Online Counselling: Counselling That Fits Around Your Life
How often are sessions, and how many can I have?
Sessions are usually weekly or fortnightly, depending on what works best for you. You can begin with a few sessions and see how things go, with the option of continuing for longer if you’d like. Counselling can be short-term or longer-term, whatever feels most helpful for you.
Do you work with neurodivergent people?
Yes! I support people who are autistic, have ADHD or are AuDHD, as well as people who are exploring whether they may be neurodivergent. I offer a warm, collaborative space where you can talk openly, feel understood and be yourself. Together, we can explore what’s important to you at a pace that feels comfortable.
You can read more here: The AuDHD Build-Up Effect, Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapy, ADHD, AuDHD, and the feeling that you are trying to catch up, Are You Tired of Trying to Fit In?, Understanding Autism, How can autistic people benefit from therapy, Living With AuDHD
If you have any questions, you’re very welcome to get in touch.
Let’s talk!
Your first phone consultation is free.