FAQs
Questions you may have before getting in touch
If you're new to counselling, it's completely normal to have questions. Here are some of the things people often want to know.
Is counselling with you only for people with a particular problem?
No. You don't need a diagnosis or even know exactly why you're feeling the way you do. We can start with whatever is happening for you and explore it together.
Who do you work with?
I work with adults aged 18+. I have particular experience working with young adults and welcome adults of all ages.
Are sessions online or face-to-face?
I offer online counselling for adults throughout the UK and Walk & Talk counselling at selected outdoor locations in Ramsbottom, Bury, Bolton and Central Manchester. I do not currently offer counselling from an indoor face-to-face counselling room.
How does Walk & Talk counselling work?
We meet at an agreed outdoor location and have the counselling session while walking side by side at a pace that is comfortable for you. Routes and meeting points are agreed beforehand. Because sessions take place in public spaces, complete privacy from passers-by cannot be guaranteed, and we will discuss this before your first Walk & Talk session.
What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather or route conditions make a Walk & Talk session unsuitable or unsafe, we can discuss rearranging the session or, where appropriate, moving the appointment online.
I've never had counselling before. What should I expect?
You don't need to prepare anything or know what you're going to say. Our first sessions give us time to get to know each other and begin exploring what has brought you to counselling. We go at a pace that feels manageable for you.
Will you tell me what I should do?
No. As a person-centred counsellor, my role isn't to make decisions for you or tell you how to live your life. I work alongside you to help you explore your experiences, feelings and choices and develop your own understanding of what feels right for you.
What does trauma-focused mean?
It means I work with an awareness that experiences from our past or present can continue to affect us, sometimes in ways that aren't immediately obvious. I won't assume that something was or wasn't traumatic for you. What matters is how you experienced it and the impact it has had.
Can I come to counselling if I have a criminal record or have been involved with the criminal justice system?
Yes. I have professional experience working with people affected by offending and the criminal justice system. You will not be judged or defined by your past. Counselling can provide a space to understand what has brought you to where you are and explore where you want to go next.
Is counselling confidential?
Yes, what you share in counselling is treated confidentially. There are some circumstances where confidentiality may need to be broken, for example where there is a serious concern about safety or where disclosure is required by law. I will explain confidentiality and its limits clearly before we begin working together.
How long will I need counselling?
There isn't one answer that suits everybody. Some people come for a relatively short period, while others find longer-term counselling helpful. We can review how the work is going together rather than deciding in advance how many sessions you must have.
What happens in the free initial consultation?
It's an opportunity for us to talk briefly about what has brought you to counselling, what you're looking for and whether working together seems appropriate. You can also ask me questions. There is no obligation to book a counselling session afterwards.
How much does counselling cost?
Online sessions are 50 minutes and cost £50, with evening and weekend online sessions at £60. Walk & Talk sessions are 60 minutes and cost £65. Payment is by bank transfer before the session and I ask for at least 24 hours' notice for cancellations or rearrangements.
Still have a question?
If there's something you'd like to ask before arranging a consultation, you're welcome to get in touch.
Get in touch