Frequently Asked Questions
If you do not see an answer to your question below, please get in touch!
What happens in the first session?
The first session is an opportunity for us to meet and explore what has brought you to counselling.
We can talk about what you would like support with, any questions you may have and whether counselling with me feels like the right fit for you.
There is no pressure to share more than you feel comfortable sharing.
How do I know if counselling is right for me?
People come to counselling for many different reasons.
You do not need to be in crisis or have a specific diagnosis to benefit from counselling.
You may be experiencing anxiety, low mood, stress, relationship difficulties, loss or simply feel that something in your life is not quite right.
Counselling can provide a space to explore whatever is important to you.
For many people, counselling provides an opportunity to move beyond simply coping and towards a more fulfilling way of living.
Do I need to know what I want to talk about?
No.
Some people come to counselling with a clear idea of what they would like to explore, while others only know that they are struggling or feeling stuck.
We can work together to make sense of whatever you choose to bring.
What are your qualifications?
I am a Registered Member (MBACP) of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy.
Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy, Persona & University of Stirling (2013)
Certificate in Counselling, Persona & University of Stirling (2011)
Diploma in Mental Health Nursing, Edinburgh Napier University (2002)
MA (Hons) in Psychology, University of Dundee (1996)
How much to you charge?
Each session is £60.
I offer concessionary rates for a small number of clients, according to financial needs.
We can discuss the fee at the first session.
How often will I see you?
This is up to you. Some clients come weekly, others fortnightly, some longer. You choose and you can change the frequency whenever you want.
Each counselling session lasts 50 minutes.
There’s no set time limit, you choose when you want to finish counselling.
What is person-centred counselling?
Person-Centred counselling is a compassionate and non-judgemental approach that focuses on you as an individual, rather than a diagnosis or label.
It provides a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, and experiences at your own pace.
The relationship between the counsellor and client is central, helping you develop greater self-understanding, confidence and the ability to move forward in your life.
Where will the counselling take place?
I offer counselling both in-person and
online.
In-Person Counselling
I will see you in Edinburgh.
Online
I will see you on Zoom.
Each counselling session lasts 50 minutes.
Is counselling confidential?
Everything you share in counselling will be confidential between us.
As part of my professional practice, I regularly discuss my work with an experienced counselling supervisor. This helps ensure that I provide the best possible support for my clients. My supervisor is also bound by strict confidentiality.
I am a Registered Member (MBACP) with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy and work within the BACP’s Ethical Framework.
“Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness.”
Desmond Tutu