Frequently Asked Questions
It's normal to feel some uncertainty when embarking on counselling, even if this is not your first time trying it.
You may prefer to jump in and see how you feel, or if you prefer to feel as informed as possible, you may like to read through these FAQs.
Different counsellors work in different ways so it's worth taking the time to find one whose style suits you and that you feel you can be open with in order to get the most out of your sessions.
How many sessions will I need?
This is an open-ended style of therapy that allows you to progress at a pace that you feel comfortable. This means you can explore topics more broadly and deeply rather than focusing on short term superficial solutions.
We can work together to ensure you focus on your goals, having regular reviews to discuss progress. Ultimately, it is your choice when to end counselling, when you feel ready.
What if this is not a good fit for me? What if we don't get along?
There is no obligation to continue if you do not feel this is right for you. Although we start with a Shared Agreement, this is more about you understanding confidentiality and boundaries. There is no fixed time scale or amount of sessions you're locked into.
If you aren't sure about the way we are working, it may be possible to work in a different way, or I could refer you to another counsellor whom you may find more suitable.
Can I pay for more than one session at a time?
Payments are usually made in the week leading up to the session, but you can pay for blocks if that suits you better. If you need to cancel any of those sessions, I would simply refund you, provided you gave more than 24 hours notice prior to the session you're cancelling.
What if I can't make a session?
I have a 24 hour cancellation policy so if you give me more than 24 hours notice, you will get a full refund.
Less than 24 hours notice means the session still needs to be paid in full.
If I cannot make a session, I will offer an alternative date/time or refund you if that's not suitable.
Does it have to be weekly?
I see most improvement in clients who attend weekly so that's my recommendation if possible. If your schedule does not allow for this, let's see if we can agree on an arrangement.
If you have a holiday booked or need a break, just let me know with as much notice as possible so I can manage my diary. Likewise, when I take a break, I'll inform you well in advance.
Can I eat and drink during the session?
If you need to, please feel free to make yourself comfortable, but consider whether you need it at that moment, or are using it for comfort or distraction from the session.
Can I take the call in my car?
Some people prefer to use their car as their private space for counselling. Obviously, driving while on the phone is illegal so you can't be on the move, but parked up is fine.
However, be aware of issues such as the strength of your wifi connection and whether someone walking past might be able to overhear the conversation.
I recommend a quiet room at home, but I appreciate that's not always possible if you're fitting this into a busy schedule or don't have much privacy at home.
Can I have someone with me?
Counselling is for an individual so we would not be able to continue the session if you had someone with you. Whilst I appreciate that you might want some support, my main concern is that you may not be able to freely express yourself with another person present.
If you need assistance from a translator or caregiver, this is different and we can discuss making this work.
What if I miss a session by mistake?
The cancellation policy would still apply, so I'd be unable to offer you a refund.
If you are worried about missing sessions, perhaps consider how you would set reminders into your usual routine.
Generally, our sessions will be the same time and day every week to minimise the risk of forgetting or getting the time wrong.
How do we start? What do I say?
We would begin by talking through the Shared Agreement, which I'd send you in advance to read through. Then we would move on to discussing the goals you mentioned in the intake form I'll send you.
Do not worry if you aren't sure what you want to talk about in a session- this is very common and often leads to very interesting discussions!
Do I need a doctor to refer me for counselling?
Absolutely not, counselling is open to everyone and for any reason.
I firmly believe that everyone could benefit from the attention and introspection that comes with counselling and that it's better to attend before you reach a breaking point or 'rock bottom' if you are able to.
Is there anything that I can't talk about?
In general, all topics are welcome. There are some limits to confidentiality which I outline in my Shared Agreement before we start.
Also, some topics such as eating disorders are best supported by a specialist. But otherwise all topics are not only welcome but encouraged, particularly if you haven't felt able to voice these thoughts and feelings elsewhere.
Still have questions?
I go into more detail on some of these topics in my Articles, which is available in the main menu.
Please feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns you have by emailing me directly at hannahpurdiecounselling@gmail.com