How quickly can you see me?
Every effort is made to offer you an initial assessment appointment within two days. Appointments can be made on-line at a time to suit you.
Can I book on line?
Yes, just follow the links
Can I just turn up?
No. Sessions are by appointment only.
How long is each session?
Usually 50 minutes; however for those travelling a distance I can be flexible on this matter.
How long is my commitment?
There is no commitment beyond the current session. I do however, consider it useful to agree with clients to an initial series of six sessions to enable us to develop a therapeutic plan.
How many sessions will I need?
This is obviously difficult to answer before the initial consultation as individuals circumstances vary considerably. On average clients attend for between 8 and twelve sessions.
Are appointments at set weekly intervals?
Not necessarily. Whilst it is preferable to see clients once a week at an agreed time, for therapeutic reasons, counsellors must live in the real word and be flexible to suit the clients' life outside of the counselling room. This would be discussed at the initial session.
What are your qualifications?
I hold the following qualifications:
MSc Counselling (University of Bristol)
Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling - Organisational Settings (University of Bristol),
BA(Hons) Economics and Management Studies (University of Leeds)
Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy,
Diploma in Hypnotherapy,
Certificate in Community Mediation,
Certificate in Life Coaching.
BACP Certificate of Proficiency (Counselling)
Is the service confidential?
Yes. The content of the sessions are confidential to you and me in accordance with the BACP Ethical Framework. Only in extreme cases such as if human life or a child's safety was at risk would I contact the authorities. Can I bring someone with me?
Yes, partners, friends and family members, including children, are welcome. Their presence is often useful, although theer may be times at which it may not be suitable for them to be present as they may interfere with the therapeutic process.
Do you have facilities for the disabled?
The practice in Shepton Mallet (BA4 5AS) is fully equipped for disabled access and facilities; if necessary arrangements can be made for those needing to attend at Wells (BA5).
What happens at the initial consultation?
The focus is on the counselling relationship; explaining the process, gathering relevant background material, and identifying aims and goals.
It is an opportunity for you and I to assess where we can work together and also to ensure that I am the right person to help you. Some clients are referred on to other counsellors or agencies who/which may be better qualified to help.
It is also a chance for you to ask questions about any aspect of counselling that is of concern to you.
Last, but not least, it is a chance for you to identify some of your hopes of counselling.
What theoretical approach do you use?
I have a broad based theoretical expertise from which I draw on ideas from a variety of approaches; in particular I work within what is known as a person centred framework. For more on this click here.
Do you specialise in any particular areas?
Yes, I have a particular interest in issues around bullying; at work, at home or in leisure settings, from the past or the present. Also I am a fully trained hypnotherapist.
Are there any services you offer for specific business issues?
Yes. I work with senior managers and business owners providing executive coaching. I also provide a full consultancy and training package in respect of developing positive working environments.
Are there any issues you do not deal with?
I do not see anyone who is younger than 18 years old, so I do not deal with children's issues; also chronic substance abuse and severe mental illness/psychosexual difficulties would be referred on to more specialist agencies.
Can I talk to you before I make an appointment?
Yes, I offer a free 15 minute consultation.
What is your success rate?
This is difficult to answer honestly as I really do not know for every client I have seen; of those I know about, many clients have found that my approach to counselling has had a positive effect on their lives.