Frequently Asked Questions
How will I know if counselling is right for me?
This is why an initial assessment is so important. Here you and your counsellor can discuss your issues and decide if counselling is appropriate. You can then decide if you feel able to work with the counsellor; if it feels right. Sometimes you may need time to make up your mind and there is no obligation to continue beyond the first meeting. If you do feel that you want to have counselling you may prefer to telephone or email after the assessment to make further appointments.
Is my counsellor properly qualified?
Most counsellors are members of professional bodies that have their own Ethical Codes of Practice and Complaints. I am a Senior Accredited member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). You can find me on their website in the 'Finding a Therapist' section.
(Visit: www.bacp.co.uk)
I am also a Graduate Member of the Metanoia Institute. You can find me on their website in the 'On-line Directory of Therapists' section.
(Visit: www.metanoia.ac.uk)
Will my problems be kept confidential?
As a Senior Accredited Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), I abide by its code of conduct which is the 'Ethical Framework for Good Practice.' One of the many issues addressed in this code is that of confidentiality and trust. I take care to ensure that confidentiality is maintained throughout the counselling relationship. I am required to attend regular supervision and here I disguise all identifying client details.
Is my counsellor within easy travelling distance?
My practice is a ten minute walk from New Malden train station. New Malden is easily reachable by car, bus or train from Wimbledon, Kingston and Richmond. Parking is freely available in my road, near to my house. Currently, I am offering telephone and video sessions.
I am not sure how many sessions of counselling I need?
At the initial assessment you can discuss your issue and decide with your counsellor how many sessions you want to agree to, that is if you decide to go ahead. It may be that sometimes, a particular problem requires a six session contract. Other, more complex, deeper issues may require longer term work. It can sometimes be agreed to review after six sessions to see if further sessions are required.
New Malden