First Meeting
Appointments are available Monday to Thursday, between 11:00 AM and 6:00 PM.
The first session is an opportunity for us to meet and for you to share a little about yourself, what brings you to counselling, and what you hope to gain from it. This initial meeting also gives us both a chance to get a sense of whether there’s a good connection between us and whether working together feels like the right fit. There’s no obligation to continue beyond this first session – it’s really about seeing if counselling with me could be a supportive and productive experience for you. If we decide to move forward, we will agree on a regular time and day that works well for both of us.
Counselling typically takes place on a weekly basis, with each session lasting for one hour. The duration of counselling can vary; counselling may be short-term or extend over a longer period, depending on your individual needs. You might attend just a few sessions (e.g. one or two), several (e.g. six or seven), or engage in ongoing, open-ended work. As our work together progresses, we may adjust the frequency of sessions, for example, moving to fortnightly or monthly meetings. We can discuss and decide together what pace and structure will best support you as counselling unfolds.
Fees
My standard fee is £50 per one hour session. Reduced fee for students is £40 per one hour session.
I offer a limited number of reduced-fee sessions, with rates negotiable based on financial circumstances. Concessions may be available for students, individuals on a low income, those receiving benefits, or clients of state pension age. These places are limited and subject to availability. Please enquire for further details.
Payment is accepted via bank transfer (preferred method) or in cash on the day of the appointment.
Counselling for Student Counsellors in Training
I warmly welcome counselling students in training from the University of Nottingham, as well as those studying on other counselling programmes.
With extensive experience as a person-centred student counsellor, I have been supporting students on both BA and MA programmes since 2008. Having trained at the University myself, I have a good understanding of the course structure and the journey it involves. This experience has given me valuable insight into the academic and personal challenges counselling students may face throughout their training. Over the years, I have worked with a diverse range of clients, including both UK-based and international students.
I am also listed as an approved counsellor for staff and students at the University of Nottingham.
Cancellation Policy
I ask that we provide each other with as much notice as possible when cancelling appointments.
Sessions cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice will be charged at the full rate. If you miss an appointment without prior contact, the full fee will also apply. While I cannot guarantee availability, I will do my best to offer an alternative appointment within the same week to help you avoid paying for a missed session.
COVID and Health
Both the client and counsellor should remain mindful of any COVID-19, flu, or cold symptoms to help protect each other’s health and safety. If either party experiences symptoms – particularly during the winter months – it is important to communicate any relevant health developments as soon as possible. Sessions should be cancelled or rescheduled with as much notice as possible. If needed or preferred, sessions can temporarily be moved online.
Confidentiality
While confidentiality is central to counselling, there are some legal and ethical limits that may require it to be broken. These will be explained in our first session. I also discuss my work in professional supervision to ensure safe and ethical practice; your identity is always protected.