FAQs
WHAT IS COUNSELLING? WHAT IS PSYCHOTHERAPY?
The terms “counselling” and “psychotherapy” are often used interchangeably, but there is a slight distinction. When we talk about counselling, this generally refers to shorter-term consultations whereas psychotherapy typically refers to longer-term treatment. Counselling typically deals with present issues that are easily resolved on the conscious level whereas psychotherapy is more focused on helping a person look at long-standing attitudes, thoughts, and reptitive behaviours that may be implicating their present quality of life and relationships.
HOW IS IT DIFFERENT FROM TALKING WITH A FAMILY MEMBER OR FRIEND?
Sometimes when we are talking to our family and friends we feel the necessity to censor what we say in order to protect them. We may want to appear strong and brave which means we don't necessarily express ourselves as openly and as honestly as we would like to, or need to. Talking to a professional counsellor, someone who is independent and non-judgemental, allows you explore honestly without holding back.
IS COUNSELLING CONFIDENTIAL?
I take your confidentiality and privacy very seriously. I am registered with the Information Commissioners Office (ICO) and I am a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, bound by their ethical framework for good practice. Only in extreme cases, such as risk to human life, the safety of a child or vulnerable adult, or disclosure of certain acts of an illegal nature would any contact be made with third parties.
Further details regarding confidentiality and how I keep your information safe can be found in my PRIVACY POLICY and T&Cs.
HOW DOES ONLINE COUNSELLING WORK?
Using a securely encrypted online platform, such as Zoom, you are able to meet with me "virtually" and engage in therapy from your computer, iPad or mobile, at a previously arranged time. Online counselling provides flexibility, convenience and removes the restrictions of location and travel, allowing me to offer specialist counselling throughout the UK. Online sessions can be very helpful if you have a medical condition or disability, find it difficult to travel or are self isolating due to Covid-19 or other health implications.
​
If you are attending counselling sessions in person, then only you and your counsellor will be in the room while the session is in progress. Similarly, for the purposes of online counselling work, it is important to ensure you have a private, safe space for your session where we cannot be overheard or disturbed by others.
HOW MANY COUNSELLING SESSIONS WILL I NEED?
The number of sessions will vary with each individual and we can discuss your aims for therapy during our initial consultation and review this throughout the process. I offer both short (typically 6-8 sessions) and long-term counselling depending on what it is you wish to explore.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER MY INITIAL ENQUIRY?
After your initial enquiry, I will offer you an initial 20 minute consultation, free of charge, either by telephone or zoom to discuss your reasons for accessing counselling, what you hope to achieve and answer any questions you may have. This will help us to begin to get to know one another and decide if we mutually feel we could work together.
​
I will then send you a client details form to you to complete and sign. Once this has been returned to me, I will contact you to arrange a mutually convenient appointment time, take a pre-payment for our first session and I will send you copies of my therapeutic contract, privacy policy and GDPR statement for you to review before our first session together. At the start of our first session, we will discuss this paperwork and run through a brief assessment to make sure I understand what your expectations are and what issues you are bringing.
FACE-TO-FACE SESSIONS
In person sessions have now recommenced at Libertas Therapy, Mill Lane, Lymm WA13 9SG. The clinic is within easy reach of the motorway networks and offers calm, peaceful and private therapy rooms. There is ample parking available directly outside the building however the clinic is situated on the first floor, accessible by stairs only.