F.A.Q

This is 50 minutes of time for you to talk about whatever is bothering you, working to your agenda. I will reflect on what I hear, I may draw out inconsistencies of body language or what you are saying and allow you space to be heard.
You may find it quite emotional to talk about things that you have kept hidden- that is perfectly ok.
 Sometimes I might suggest ways of working for example considering your inner child, or using a strategy but it is at your pace and for you to say no. Sessions are usually weekly allowing you time to reflect on our work and sometimes to try new ways.

Your session is confidential within the realms of the law, with the proviso, that if I consider you to be  at risk of harm to yourself or others I may contact, with your permission an external agency such as your GP. I work with a supervisor to ensure that I am working ethically and for your benefit. I am a registered member of the British association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (BACP) www.bacp.org.uk , and work within their Ethical code of Practise.

There is a well behaved dog in my house who often likes to say hello as I open the door. Please let me know if you do not wish this.

I have chosen to offer a concessionary rate just to teachers and LTA's in recognition of my former career

I understand that counselling can feel a scary place, but you will gain most benefit if you come alone, unless we have agreed to work as a couple, with a family member or partner. I do not have a waiting area. 

We are all human and on occasion  have reasons to cancel our session. Please give me 24  hours notice if you need to cancel a session and I will try to accommodate you with an alternate date. In an emergency , please let me know as soon as possible. Unfortunately I will have to charge a full fee if these conditions are not met.

I can take payment by cash or by bankers transfer  on the day.
 I do not like to take payments upfront but do rely on an honest transparent exchange between us and  hope that this is respected.

I have close family members and myself who are medically vulnerable so I take the situation very seriously.
I will use information derived from www.gov.uk and from my insurerer Holistic to ascertain whether face to face sessions are allowable and will contact each client should I be unable to see you face to face and offer you the facility to continue with online sessions.
If I am able to see you face 2 face I will take additional precautions of asking you not to come if you have any signs of a fever or new cough. I will take your temperature at the door and offer you  alcohol hand gel. Surfaces will be wiped down when you leave and longer gaps between sessions

There is always a point to carrying on - sometimes in a very dark moment we cannot see the way. Counselling can help when there is still a glimmer of hope so please call and we can talk about your future, but this is not an emergency resource.
If you are feeling desperate  and plan to end your life Samaritans offer a confidential telephone service 24/7 -please call 116 123
alternatively,
Please tell a trusted friend or partner , present at your local Accident and Emergency department or telephone 999