FAQs

  • Basically you talk, I listen and may be talk as well! That probably doesn’t answer the question fully and I know that if you have not had counselling this lack of knowing can be worrying. However, when we speak on the phone before our first session, I will hopefully be able to reassure you more.

  • No - the work we do together is totally confidential. If we are working face to face, there will be no one listening to you – it will be just you and I during your session. If our work is done over the phone or online, I will be working alone and the same situation will apply. There may be some occasions when I will need to tell someone else about what we have talked about, these are legal requirements or if I am worried about your safety. I will talk about this more as part of our contract of working together. As a therapist I am ethically bound to keep what you share private.

  • My belief is that it is just as effective as working face to face, in fact some people prefer working over the phone to face to face. These sessions are for you and therefore it is important you are comfortable with whatever arrangement suits you the best.

  • If something about it isn’t working for you, then I would encourage you to talk to me about it because our relationship is key to your success. It maybe I am not the right person for you to work with, but I can direct you to others who may be better for your needs.

  • The simple answer is no, it is an important part of our counselling relationship that we have set times when we meet. If you can’t make the sessions, it is best to let me know as soon as possible. Cancellation charges may apply but we will cover that during our initial session.

  • Of course – we can diary in your holidays. It is important we have regular sessions, but holidays are important as we all need to recharge especially with our family or friends! I will also ensure you are aware of any time off I am having too.

  • Counselling can assist everyone. I welcome everyone, regardless of your gender, religion, culture, sexual orientation, or employment status. Counselling is also not just for adult individuals, but is beneficial for couples, families, young adults and children. At present I only accept clients 16 years and over.

  • Yes, you can. Many therapists now work with clients over secure video platforms like Skype or Zoom. If you would like face to face sessions where possible and over the internet otherwise, we can discuss this blended approach at the start. It’s about finding what suits you.

  • Yes. If you require more than one session a week, I may be able to accommodate this, which we can review as things start to improve for you.

  • It’s different for everyone. It can be a relief to talk about something that has been upsetting you. When someone who understands really listens to you, without judgement, it can be very powerful. Therapy is a safe place to let your feelings out and share what’s on your mind. Feeling heard, seen and understood can be very moving. You might feel like crying, start getting upset or even angry in therapy. This can feel unsettling and intense but I can help you process and cope with the emotions that you might start to encounter.

  • One-to-one sessions are typically 50 minutes long but can be up to an hour long. Sometimes sessions can be shorter, lasting 30 minutes but we can discuss this at our initial phone call.

  • Mounts Bay is an amazing location. However we can meet anywhere within a 30 mile radius of Penzance. The location will be safe and private, we can walk outside, meet in your favourite cafe or why not choose a local beauty spot and and use ‘Tessa’ my converted VW Van. It will be at a mutually convenient locality.

  • Of course! I am proud owner of my own rescue whippet and know just how reassuring the company of our four legged friends can be when we are feeling low.