Counselling Q&A

What can I expect from my first counselling session?

Your first counselling session will involve firstly completing the counselling contract. We will then spend the rest of the session time being led by whatever you wish to bring to the session. My sessions are fully directed by the client; I will never initiate a subject to discuss.

What if I feel upset or unsettled after my sessions?

Therapy is tough; it’s hard work. But the aim of this effort is to process any feelings and thoughts that are hindering you in your daily life. Initially, it can feel painful and challenging. However, to effectively process your feelings, you must immerse yourself in them. I will always make clients aware when the session is close to ending so we can wind down before leaving. Additionally, it’s helpful to plan the rest of your day around your session with activities that aren’t too stressful or overwhelming. Self-care is highly important, even if it means going to grab a quiet coffee or meeting a friend or family member afterward.

Can I switch from weekly to fortnightly sessions?

If at any time you feel that you want to change the frequency of your sessions, this is something we can discuss together. We can explore why you feel a change may benefit you, as it is important to ensure that the adjustment will not have a negative impact on the therapy.

I’m worried about saying certain things, how do I overcome this?

It’s crucial to be completely open with your therapist, even if it means expressing discomfort about discussing certain topics. This discomfort might stem from fear of judgment or concerns about confidentiality. You should never feel judged by your counselor, and if you do, it’s important to address this. Additionally, all therapy sessions are fully confidential, unless there is a safeguarding concern for the client or a risk to someone else. Therefore, everything you share during your sessions will remain confidential. However, building trust takes time, and I will ensure that we progress through the sessions at your pace until you feel comfortable sharing any struggles you may have.