What you can expect

A space where you are at the centre

Starting counselling can feel like a significant step. You don't need to arrive knowing exactly where to begin. When you arrive at Centred Space, you'll enter a private, warm therapeutic environment where you can settle in and feel comfortable. I'll offer you a drink, and we'll take a little time to arrive. We'll begin by talking through our counselling agreement together, creating a shared understanding of how we’ll work.  From there, I'll ask you where you'd like to start.

Finding your own pace

We can explore what's important, follow what emerges and allow the process to develop as the work grows. Sometimes you'll have lots to say or you may not know where to begin. Sometimes something unexpected will emerge. All of these moments are a meaningful part of therapy.

What happens in a session?

You might arrive knowing exactly what you'd like to talk about, or something may emerge once we're together. We might explore a feeling, a relationship, something that's happened recently, or something you've carried for much longer. I'll listen carefully and stay alongside you as we make sense of your experience. 

How often will we meet?

I recommend weekly sessions initially. Consistency can help us build our therapeutic relationship and create a sense of routine, which can be particularly valuable when life feels emotionally difficult. As our work evolves, we'll review how often you would like to meet. For some people, moving to fortnightly sessions feels appropriate. The decision remains yours. I don't recommend sessions more frequently than weekly, as I believe having space between sessions can be an important part of the process.

How long will we work together? 

I recommend a minimum of six sessions, while recognising that everyone's journey is different. Therapy has a beginning, a middle and an ending. If we work together for a longer period, we can revisit what initially brought you to counselling and consider how your experience has shifted. When the time comes to finish, we'll make space for a thoughtful ending.

Different ways to meet

I offer 50-minute sessions:

Face-to-face

My counselling room is in the front office of my home in Glossop, with its own entrance directly from the street.

Online

A flexible option if getting to the practice isn't practical or you feel more comfortable speaking from your own space.

Telephone

For some people, particularly those who find visual or social demands tiring, telephone counselling can offer a welcome sense of freedom and ease.

We'll find the format that works best for you.

Your first step 

Before arranging your first session, I offer a free 20-minute chat. It's an opportunity to tell me a little about what has brought you to counselling and to ask me any questions. You don't need to make a decision during the call. Sometimes the first step is just having a conversation.