All counselling sessions last 50 minutes and are conducted one to one (or one to two during couples therapy) online via Skype. These sessions simply take the form of a conversation discussing whatever is on your heart in that moment.
Sessions tend to occur on a once a week basis/once every two week basis and begin with an initial consultation to outline what brought you to therapy in the first place, what you hope to gain by the end of therapy, what the sessions are likely to entail and how many sessions may be required. During this session you will also have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have or highlight any fears or concerns about the process. By the end of this session we will have been able to establish whether or not we feel able to work together in a therapeutic relationship. After the initial consultation, sessions are offered on a minimum of 3 additional counselling appointments basis to ensure there is adequate time to work through the subject matter. Flexibility in terms of session extension is also available, for example sessions can be extended to a mutually agreed pre-determined amount of weeks or can remain open ended as required. A drop in service is unavailable.
Once an initial course of therapy has been completed (e.g. a minimum of 4 weeks) I offer clients non-mandatory single 'ad hoc' sessions which may occur only once, on a monthly basis or a few times throughout the year as needed. These sessions are useful when individuals use counselling as a "check in" where room is given to discuss concerns that do not require intensive weekly sessions.
Where appropriate and as long as a client feels comfortable, I incorporate more practical and creative methods within sessions such as writing, drawing or role playing to help further access emotion or gain clarity of thought. Clients are at liberty to decline or accept this way of working.
All counselling appointments sent out require 24 hours email confirmation from the client. Appointments are tentative until formally acknowledged by the client. 48 hours notice is required for any cancellations via email. Full fees will be payable if less than 48 hours notice is provided. Appointments are chargeable in full but will cease to go ahead after 10 minutes of lateness.