FAQ

How do I know if counselling is right for me?

Perhaps something has been troubling you for a while, or you have a sense that something needs to change. Counselling offers a space to slow down, be heard and explore what is happening for you. We can begin with a conversation and see whether working together feels right.

What happens when I first get in touch?

I'll aim to respond within 24 hours. I'll invite you to arrange a free 20-minute chat, giving us an opportunity to talk about what has brought you to counselling, what you're hoping for and whether I might be able to offer the support you're looking for. My aim is for you to feel welcomed and reassured from the beginning.

What happens during the free chat?

You can tell me a little about what has brought you to counselling and ask any questions you might have. I'll explain a little about how I work and we can talk about whether it feels like a good fit. It's about giving you enough information to decide what feels right for you.

What happens during my first session?

When you arrive, you'll be able to settle into a comfortable, calm environment and we'll take some time to settle in. We'll go through our counselling agreement together which gives us a clear foundation for our work together. From there, I'll ask where you'd like to start.

What is person-centred counselling?

Person-centred counselling places your experience at the heart of the work. I'll bring my professional knowledge, experience, curiosity and compassion, while you bring your own understanding of yourself. We'll explore what feels important to you and pay attention to what emerges along the way. I believe the relationship we create together is an important part of the therapeutic process.

How often will we meet?

I recommend weekly sessions initially. Consistency can be particularly helpful when we're struggling emotionally and gives us an opportunity to build the therapeutic relationship. We'll review how things are going together, and you can decide what feels appropriate as the work develops. I'm comfortable offering fortnightly sessions once we've established our work together. I don't recommend sessions more frequently than weekly.

How long will I need counselling?

Every therapeutic journey is different. I recommend a minimum of six sessions, giving us time to establish the relationship, explore what has brought you to counselling and begin to recognise any changes. Some people need a shorter period of support, while others choose to work together for longer. 

Do you work with neurodivergent clients? 

Yes. I'm invested in exploring the whole person rather than reducing someone to a diagnosis. My approach is affirmative and collaborative, with space to explore your individual experience.

Can we talk about addiction?

Yes. I have experience supporting people affected by addiction and understand how closely addiction and emotional wellbeing can be connected. My work focuses on the emotional landscape of addiction rather than managing recovery logistics. If you're working with a recovery worker or another service, counselling can sit alongside that support and offer a space to explore the feelings, experiences and patterns underneath.

Can I come to counselling if I'm still using substances?

Yes. I work with people who are actively using substances. We'll approach your experiences with compassion and curiosity rather than judgement. My role is not to manage your recovery or create relapse plans, but to explore what is happening emotionally and what your relationship with substances means for you. Where other support is needed, I'll work within appropriate professional boundaries and encourage you to access it.

Can we talk about traumatic experiences?

Yes. Traumatic experiences can affect how we feel, relate to others and experience ourselves. If trauma becomes part of our work, we'll approach it carefully and at a pace that feels appropriate for you. Sometimes talking about the experience itself feels important. Sometimes what matters most is exploring how it feels to talk about it. We'll follow what feels right for you.

What if counselling doesn't feel right for me?

Sometimes we're not the right fit, and that's okay. If another approach, practitioner or service seems better suited to what you're looking for, I'll support you in exploring your options. My priority is that your experience of seeking support remains positive and helps you move closer to what you need.

Can I have online or telephone sessions?

Yes. I offer face-to-face counselling from my practice in Glossop, as well as online and telephone sessions. I want the service to be flexible enough to work around different lifestyles and circumstances. Telephone counselling can also be a comfortable option for some neurodivergent clients.

How much does counselling cost?

Sessions are £65 for 50 minutes. I believe in being transparent about my fees. Your session fee supports not only the time we spend together, but the professional framework around that work, including clinical supervision, professional membership, insurance, ongoing training and CPD, secure record keeping, data protection and the costs of maintaining the practice. This allows me to provide a professionally supported, confidential and sustainable service.

Where can I park?

Free parking is available at the Albert Street car park, with 24 spaces, including 2 disabled spaces. Parking is available from 8am–6pm, with a maximum stay of 10 hours. On-street parking is also available nearby, subject to local restrictions and availability.

Address: Albert Street, Hadfield, High Peak, Derbyshire, SK13 1DA