At the beginning of the first counselling session, I will explain the boundaries and ‘contracting’ appropriate to the work. This includes confidentiality, session lengths and times, cost and data protection. We will then discuss the aims for the counselling, and the focus of the work.

To give you a better understanding on how online sessions for couples work we have created a separate page with more information:

My insurance company requires completion of a basic contact form with all clients, including details of your GP. I can send this to you via email prior to our first session for you to complete and bring with you, or we can complete it together in the first session.

No. The counselling sessions are confidential. There are some exceptions to this however, including if someone was at a serious risk of harm, which will be explained in the first session, and given to you in a signed, written agreement.

No, in general I recommend weekly sessions to begin with, and try to keep these to the same time and day each week. I understand however, that this is not possible for everyone, so offer some flexibility.

Counselling sessions are bookable as 1 hour and 1 hour 30 minute appointments.

Everyone is different, some people may require many sessions, some only a few. It depends on the nature of the work, and the presenting issue(s).

Payment can be made by bank transfer, cash or credit/debit cards. Payment is taken at the time of booking when using the online booking system.

You can call or text 07878 086578, or email info@connections-counselling.co.uk should you need to cancel or re-arrange a session.

Doing tasks set outside of the counselling sessions may help to speed up the process, or complement the work we are doing, particularly if you are learning new communication techniques. I may make reading suggestions or give you worksheets to complete, but this is completely optional, and we will discuss whether this is suitable for you.

I understand meeting someone new and visiting a new place may cause anxiety. If you would like support with this, please let me know via phone/text or email, and I will provide you with additional information to help you prepare for the sessions.

I have a selection of sensory and tactile objects available in the room to help reduce anxiety. I also have a range of visual aids, and use a whiteboard to support clients who prefer visual forms of communication.

No. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please call 111, or contact your GP. The Samaritans (https://www.samaritans.org/) can also be contacted on freephone 116 123, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.