Terms & Conditions

 

What to Expect from Counselling

Counselling is sometimes misunderstood. Below is some general guidance on what you can expect from the process:

  1. It’s not about being given advice.
    Counsellors do not have the answers for you, because they believe that you are the best person to know what’s right for you. The role of the counsellor is to help you explore your thoughts and feelings, guiding you in discovering what you might like to do moving forward.

  2. Counselling is confidential.
    You can talk about anything you like, and it will remain confidential. However, there is an important exception: if you share that someone is in immediate danger or at risk, the counsellor may need to break confidentiality to ensure safety. They will do this by contacting a safeguarding lead, but this would always be done with your full awareness.

  3. Counsellors undergo regular supervision.
    Counsellors work under the guidance of a more experienced professional to ensure their work is appropriate, ethical, and safe. This helps them provide the best possible care for you.

  4. Sessions are scheduled in advance.
    The time and day of your sessions will be agreed upon beforehand. If you’re unable to attend, please provide as much notice as possible. However, please note that it may not be possible for your counsellor to reschedule.

If you have concerns about the counselling process, the first step is to talk directly to your counsellor. Open communication is key, and together, you can work out how best to proceed. If this doesn’t resolve the issue, you can contact your counsellor’s professional body (e.g., BACP) for further guidance and support.

Counselling is grounded in a wealth of research, supporting its effectiveness as an approach to mental well-being. However, as with any therapeutic process, there are no guarantees. The work may take time, and in some cases, you might find that a different counsellor or a different approach might be more suitable for your needs.  Be honest with your counsellor.  If necessary, they will be able to refer you to a more appropriate level of care.