What to expect

Taking the first step towards counselling can feel daunting, particularly if you're unsure what the process involves or whether it will feel right for you. I aim to make the process as clear, supportive and pressure-free as possible.

Initial phone call — free, 15–20 minutes

Before committing to counselling with me, I offer a free 15–20 minute telephone call. This gives us an opportunity to get a sense of one another and for you to ask any questions about counselling, how I work or what you might need.

You can share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with. There is no obligation to continue — the call is simply an opportunity to explore whether working together feels right for you.

Starting counselling

If you decide you'd like to go ahead, I'll email you a counselling contract and assessment form.

The contract explains how I work and what you can expect from counselling, giving you an opportunity to consider whether it feels right for you and ask any questions before we begin. The assessment form helps me understand a little more about you and what has brought you to counselling.

We would usually begin with weekly sessions, as regular sessions help create consistency and continuity, particularly when exploring difficult or sensitive experiences.

The therapeutic relationship

The relationship we build is an important part of counselling. I aim to offer a relationship that feels reliable, respectful and boundaried, where you can express yourself openly without fear of judgement or pressure.

Over time, the counselling relationship itself can become a place to notice and explore patterns in how you relate to others. You can reflect on what happens between us and try out different ways of expressing yourself or relating to someone, without the risks or consequences that may feel present elsewhere.

Ongoing sessions

In our sessions, you can talk at your own pace about whatever feels most important to you. We'll regularly check in about how the work is feeling for you, and you remain in control of what we explore.

My role is to walk alongside you with care and curiosity, helping you develop greater self-understanding, self-trust and emotional steadiness over time.

Counselling isn't about being fixed or rushed. It's a collaborative process that unfolds gradually, shaped by your needs and guided by what feels manageable for you.