Frequently Asked Questions
What happens during the first session?
The first session is an opportunity for us to get to know one another and explore what has brought you to counselling. There is no pressure to share everything at once, and we will work at a pace that feels comfortable for you.
Do you offer a free initial consultation?
Yes. I offer a free 10-minute introductory telephone call. This gives you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have, tell me a little about what has brought you to counselling, and decide whether you feel comfortable working with me.
How long is each session?
Sessions last 50 minutes and are available online or face-to-face.
What are your fees?
Individual counselling sessions are £50 per 50-minute session.
How many sessions will I need?
There is no set number of sessions. Some people attend counselling for a few weeks to work through a specific issue, while others choose longer-term support. We can regularly review your needs and work together to find an approach that feels right for you.
Most clients attend either weekly or fortnightly, particularly at the beginning of counselling, as this helps build consistency and momentum. However, the frequency of sessions is entirely your choice, and we can discuss what feels most appropriate for your circumstances and needs.
What issues can counselling help with?
People come to counselling for many different reasons, including anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, life changes, overwhelm, and feeling stuck or uncertain.
Do I need to be in crisis to come to counselling?
No. Many people come to counselling because they want a space to better understand themselves, work through challenges, or improve their wellbeing. You do not need to be in crisis to benefit from counselling.
What if I need urgent or crisis support?
Think Free Counselling is not a crisis service, and I am unable to provide immediate or emergency support.
If you feel that you may be at risk of harming yourself or someone else, or you need urgent mental health support, please contact:
- 999 if there is an immediate risk to life.
- NHS 111 for urgent medical or mental health support.
- Samaritans on 116 123 (free, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year) if you need someone to talk to.
- Your GP, if you require further support or advice.
If you are already a counselling client, please be aware that I am unable to provide crisis support or respond to emergencies between sessions.
What if I'm not sure counselling is right for me?
It's completely normal to feel unsure. The free 10-minute introductory telephone call gives us the opportunity to talk through any questions or concerns you may have and decide whether counselling feels like the right next step for you.
Do you offer online counselling?
Yes. Online counselling is available via Microsoft Teams, allowing you to access support from the comfort of your own home. All you need is a private space, a stable internet connection and a device with a camera and microphone.
A Teams link will be sent to you before each session.
Is everything I say confidential?
Confidentiality is an important part of counselling. There are some exceptions, such as where there is a serious risk of harm to yourself or others, concerns about the safety of a child or vulnerable adult, or where I am legally required to disclose information. This will be explained fully before we begin working together.
Can I cancel or rearrange an appointment?
Of course. I understand that life can be unpredictable and that circumstances sometimes change. If you need to cancel or rearrange a session, I kindly ask that you provide at least 48 hours' notice wherever possible.
Sessions cancelled with less than 48 hours' notice may still be charged at the full session fee, as the appointment time has been reserved specifically for you and may not be able to be offered to someone else.
How do I book a session?
You can get in touch using the contact form on the website, by email, or by telephone. Following a free 10-minute introductory telephone call, we can arrange your first counselling session if you decide you would like to proceed.