What you might want to know before we begin
What happens in the first session?
We'll talk about what's brought you to therapy, and what you'd like from our time together. There's no pressure to share everything straight away - we'll go at your pace.
Do I need to have a big problem to come to therapy?
Not at all. Some people come with clear issues, others just feel off or stuck. If something's affecting your emotional wellbeing, it's worth exploring.
Is everything I say confidential?
Yes with a few legal exceptions around risk and safety. We'll go over this in our first session so you feel clear and safe.
How long will I need counselling?
Everyone's different. Some people come for a few sessions, others for longer. We'll review regularly and you're free to end whenever you choose.
Am I the right counsellor for you?
That's a really important question, and the best way to answer that is by having a short, free call. If it doesn't feel like a good fit, I can help signpost you to someone else.
What happens in a counselling session?
You'll have space to talk about whatever is important to you. I won't judge or direct the conversation, instead I'll listen, reflect and help you make sense of things at your own pace. Each session is led by you and centred on what you bring.
Can parents or caregivers be involved?
If you're coming to counselling as a young person, your parent or caregiver may be part of the initial conversation, with your agreement. I can also offer separate check-ins with parents or caregivers if it's helpful. If this happened this would always be with your consent and in a way that protects your privacy.
What if I get emotional or don't know what to say?
That's completely okay. There's no right or wrong way to be in counselling. Sometimes just showing up is enough. I'll be there with you, and we can go at your pace.
Are there any concessions available?
Yes. I have a limited number of lower cost spaces available. Please feel free to ask, I want counselling to be accessible to those who need it.
When will I receive the link for our online session?
You'll receive a secure video link by email once payment for your session has been received. I ask this is made no later than 48 hours before our session. Paying 48 hours before helps me keep your session time just for you and gives us time to get everything set up. It also means if you need to cancel or reschedule, there's a better chance I can offer the slot to someone else who might need support.
Can I reschedule or cancel a session?
Yes - life happens! I ask for at least 48 hours notice to cancel or reschedule without charge. If you cancel with less notice, the full fee may still apply unless there are exceptional circumstances.
What if I don't know where to start in a session?
That's okay. You don't need to prepare anything or have the right words. Sometimes we just start with how things are today, or sit in silence for a while. There's no pressure, I'm here to support you wherever you're at.
Do I need any special software for online sessions?
No special software is required, just a private space and a device with a stable internet connection. I use a secure, easy to access video platform, and you can join through your web browser or phone.
Is it okay to have a drink or snack during our session?
Yes, our space is for you to be as you are. You're welcome to have a drink (non-alcoholic), lie down, move around, or bring something comforting to the session. It's about what helps you feel at ease.
What if I'm worried about being overheard during our session?
You're not alone, this is a common concern. You could try using headphones, sitting in a car, putting on a fan or white noise outside the door, or even typing parts of what you want to say in the chat box if that helps. We can find a way that feels as safe and private as possible for you.
Where should I be for our session, is it okay to join from work, home or elsewhere?
What matters most is you feel safe, comfortable and able to speak freely. Many people join from home, a parked car, or a quiet room at work. If you're away of travelling, that's fine too - as long as you have privacy and a good internet connection. It's okay if things aren't perfect, we can still make the space work for you.
Why choose a person-centred counsellor?
The person-centred approach is built on trust, empathy and respect for your autonomy. Rather that directing or diagnosing you, I'll offer a non-judgmental space where you can explore your experiences in your own way. This kind of counselling supports self-discovery, emotional growth and a change from the inside out - because I believe that you already have the capacity to find your own answers, with the right support.
Can I join our session while I'm on holiday or away from home?
Yes absolutely, as long as you're somewhere private and have a secure internet connection, you're welcome to join from wherever you are. Just let me know in advance if you'll be in a different time zone so we can make sure the timings work.
Can I join our session on my phone?
Yes - the platform I use works well on mobile, tablet or desktop. You'll get a secure link by email and you can tap to join from any device.
What if I don't feel ready to talk about everything?
That's completely okay. You don't have to share anything before you're ready. We'll go at your pace and you're in control of what we explore together. Some people find it easier to open up online, which is known as the disinhibition effect - being in your own familiar space or talking through a screen can sometimes make it feel safer to express things that are hard to say face to face. But there's no pressure - just showing up is enough.
Where in Chelmsford are you?
I work out of Chelmsford Wellbeing Centre in Railway Street.
Can I just turn up and talk to you?
No, I don't offer walk-in sessions. The space in Chelmsford is a held, confidential space that needs to be booked in advance. Counselling works best when there is time to prepare, so booking ahead allows us both enter the space with intention, presence and care for your process.
I've had counselling before and it didn't help - what makes you different?
Every counselling relationship is unique. I work in a person-centred way, meaning we go at your pace, with no pressure to fit into someone else's idea of healing.
Do I need a mental health diagnosis to work with you?
No, most definitely not, nor do you need a referral. All you need is a sense that you'd like some support and you're welcome exactly as you are.
