Common Questions and Fees

What is counselling / therapy?

“Counselling” and “psychotherapy” are terms that are often used interchangeably. Some feel that counselling refers to short-term work and psychotherapy to working at depth on an open-ended basis, but generally, both are umbrella terms that cover a range of talking and listening-based methods for addressing psychological issues.

Through the process of talking – and being heard – in a safe, confidential space, we can gain a better understanding of our past and present conflicts, learn to appreciate and build up our own resources, and explore new perspectives and ways of being in the world. This might involve clarifying opportunities for growth and change or, conversely, exploring and coming to terms with areas we are unable or unwilling to change.

What is a “Person Centred” approach to counselling?

Person-centred counselling is one of the humanistic approaches. It was founded in the 1940s by the American psychologist Carl Rogers who believed that, given the right conditions, a person can reach their full potential and become their true self, which he termed ‘self-actualisation’. This actualisation process is innate and accessible to everyone.

When you’re attending counselling sessions with a person-centred counsellor, you’ll be encouraged to bring your own issues to the session – the counselling is led by you and not directed by the counsellor.

Many people, with no prior knowledge of counselling, believe that the counsellor will sort their problems out for them. A person-centred counsellor will help you to explore your own issues, feelings, beliefs, behaviour, and worldview, so you can become more self-aware and achieve greater independence. The work is a collaborative process which will help you to work through your own issues, build your self-confidence and appreciate that you always have options. You are treated as the expert on yourself, as no-one else knows exactly what it’s like to be you.

There is no judgement, no matter what you bring to the session. This helps build a trustworthy relationship in which you can feel free and supported to disclose whatever is troubling you. Eventually it will lead you to discover your own abilities and autonomy, so that you can cope with current and future problems.

What can I expect from the initial consultation?

Our first contact will be an initial telephone or email exchange where we can arrange an online consultation and will last up to 45 minutes.. During this time, we will get a sense of one another; you can tell me about yourself and why you’re seeking therapy. You can also ask any questions you may have about the therapy process. I will make some written notes during this session, but this will be the only time I make notes during our sessions. If, at the end of this meeting, you’d like to proceed with further sessions, we will talk about whether in-person or online meetings are best for you, and then agree the day, time, and cost.

What about the other sessions?

If, after the initial consultation, you decide to proceed with regular therapy, each session will be 50 minutes and will take place on a weekly basis at the same time each week.

This is your time, so sessions are client-led, and you are encouraged to take the lead exploring whatever is important to you. I will ask open-ended questions to guide the conversation in a way that helps you gain a clearer understanding of your emotions and identify patterns in your thinking. Through this supported exploration you will discover your own inner resources and develop your capacity for self-healing.

Where will we meet?

I offer a choice of in-person sessions from a comfortable location in central Tonbridge, Kent, or online.

Are sessions confidential?

I firmly believe that at the heart of effective therapy is the strength of our relationship. Key to this is trust, and confidentiality is an essential part of this.

I am bound by the ethical standards of the BACP. As such, I am required to attend regular supervision sessions with a qualified professional and may discuss our work in this context, though your identity will not be disclosed.

In accordance with the BACP Ethical Framework for Good Practice in Counselling and Psychotherapy, I may be required to break our confidentiality agreement if your life, or the life of someone else, is in imminent danger, there is a child protection concern or if I am legally obliged to do so.

We can discuss any queries or concerns you have about confidentiality in our initial consultation, or at any time during the therapy process.

Fees

The initial online consultation is £25, and my standard fee is £60 per 50 minute session.