Questions
Things people ask me
If yours isn’t here, ask on the call or in a message. Practical details are on sessions and fees. I see people for counselling in Skipton and counselling in Keighley, as well as online.
What happens during the free 15-minute consultation?
It’s a short phone call, about fifteen minutes. You can ask how I work, tell me a little about what’s bringing you, and see whether it feels like a fit. It isn’t a therapy session, and there’s no pressure to decide during the call.
What if I don’t know what to talk about?
You don’t need a script. We can start with whatever is on your mind, even if that’s “I don’t know where to begin.”
What if I’m nervous about starting counselling?
That’s very ordinary. The free call is a low-pressure way to see whether I feel like someone you could talk to. You don’t have to arrive with a tidy story.
What happens in the first session?
I’ll ask what’s brought you, and we’ll begin to get a sense of each other. You can say as much or as little as you want. There’s no checklist you need to arrive with.
How often will we meet?
Most people begin with a weekly session, because it gives us some continuity. It doesn’t have to stay that way. We’ll agree what fits you.
Do I have to come every week?
No. Weekly is common at the start, but we can meet less often if that suits you better.
How many sessions will I need?
I can’t know from a first message. Some people come for a short stretch; others longer. We review as we go, and you decide what still feels useful.
Can I stop counselling whenever I want?
Yes. Counselling is voluntary. You can stop at any point. It’s helpful to say so, so we can end thoughtfully, but you don’t have to keep coming.
Do you offer online counselling?
Yes. The same 50-minute sessions, by video, for people anywhere in the UK. You’ll need a private space and a reasonable connection. I also see people in person for counselling in Skipton and counselling in Keighley.
Where are your counselling rooms?
In a private room in Skipton, and a private room in Keighley. I’ll tell you exactly where before anything is booked. More on sessions and fees.
Do you work with people under 18?
I work with people aged 16 and over. I don’t see children under 16 — that needs different training.
What happens if I get upset during a session?
That happens, and it’s all right. We can slow down, sit quietly, or change what we’re talking about. You won’t be pushed to stay with something that feels too much.
Do I need a GP referral?
No. You can send me a message directly. You can involve your GP if you want to — you don’t have to.
How confidential is counselling?
What you say stays between us. There are rare limits — mainly if there is a serious risk of harm — and I’ll explain those before we start. The Privacy Notice covers how I look after messages and notes.
What if I need to cancel?
Please give as much notice as you can. I’ll share the full cancellation arrangements when we begin working together.