The initial session will help inform the approximate number of sessions that may be therapeutically beneficial, it can range between just a few sessions to more open-ended, longer-term counselling.  I will regularly review the process with you every three or four sessions, to discuss a therapy timeline that is suitable for you and your circumstances.  On average, 6-8 sessions is a guideline number of sessions.

‘Counselling’ and ‘therapy’ or ‘counsellor’ and ‘therapist’ can be used interchangeably.  Counselling is a talking therapy, being a slightly different approach to CBT.  CBT is more structured, behavioural and directive which can benefit some client issues more than others.  Therapy approach will be discussed during intake upon referral, and can be adapted to client needs as the therapy progresses.  Please see the Therapy page for more details about the different approaches.

The approach to therapy can be discussed upon referral at the start of therapy, alongside your therapy goals and preferences. Of course you may wish to access just one approach (CBT or counselling), which is completely fine.

Confidentiality is of the utmost importance in counselling/therapy/CBT.  Everything you share with me will be held in the strictest confidence. 

The only exception to confidentiality is in the instance of risk of harm to self or others, or safeguarding concerns.  In these instances, with any relevant third party disclosure (eg. GP disclosure) I would attempt to discuss this with yourself first.

On occasion, there are exceptions when it comes to legal subpoenas during legal/court cases. Also, if a client wishes for specific information to be shared with a third party, for example, information to be shared with a doctor, then a third party disclosure consent form will need to be signed by the client.

The only thing you would need to bring is yourself.  Please feel free to bring anything with you that may help you feel more comfortable, or a notebook for you to jot down any notes during sessions.  Tea, coffee and water is available.

The entire building continues to be covid safe, is cleaned regularly, there are handwashing facilities and there is room to social distance if you choose. There are no government restrictions currently in place.

Yes, there are toilets available.

Please try to arrive no more than 5 minutes prior to your session time, as there is no waiting room at the premises.  The building has a secure entry system so please text/call upon arrival and I will meet you at the main door.  There are quiet places within the building to sit and have a cup of tea or to take five minutes after a session, should you need to take any time before leaving.

Unfortunately, my main therapy room is not accessible due to it being on the first floor, and there are two steps at the front entrance.  However, I do have the option of using alternative counselling rooms nearby in Townside Primary Care Centre, Bury – please let me know if you would like to schedule sessions in this fully accessible building.

The first counselling session usually focuses on meeting one another, exploring therapy goals and discussing what has brought you to seek counselling/therapy.  We may formulate a support plan, and talk through coping strategies.  Outcome measures/questionnaires may be used to monitor mood/sleep/anxieties. 

There is no obligation to continue with counselling, if you feel you no longer wish to continue.  All I ask is notice of cancellation of any scheduled appointments.

There are limits to what I can safely work with in counselling due to training limitations or more appropriate support pathways, for example, people at immediate risk of harm, experiencing psychotic episodes, dealing with more complex mental health issues such as schizophrenia, trauma or personality disorders. 

I do not currently work with some of the following:  couples counselling, family counselling, eating disorders, alcohol or drug support, or fertility/pregnancy concerns.  Signposting information will be offered where possible, to relevant support services, alternative therapists, clinical psychologist/psychiatrist services or GP services.

I offer counselling to children/teenagers above 12 years old via parent/guardian referral.

I have a current DBS certificate.

I currently am able to work with the following insurers:  Aviva / Vitality.

I am affiliated as a counsellor/CBT therapist on the databases of various EAPs, please enquire directly for further information.

Old-fashioned representations of therapy may include a therapist just nodding and listening, with the client lying on a couch.  This is not to be expected here.  My approach is a collaborative, conversational, interactional one, being humanistic in my core training rather than psychodynamic.  I value the importance of genuine connection in therapy, so I am as authentic as I can be as a practitioner.  Therapy is also a space that can be challenging, facilitating exploration of issues and personal development.

I would need to politely end a call if you are driving during telephone counselling, even if you are using hands-free. This is due to health and safety reasons.

I do not generally do home visits, but in exceptional circumstances this could be an option, please get in touch if you feel you would need home visits for counselling sessions.

As a counsellor, I do not diagnose or prescribe any medication.  Only medical professionals such as doctors, psychiatrists or clinical psychologists are able to do this.