My approach. _

“The darkest hour always comes just before the dawn.”

What’s your approach to counselling?

I primarily follow the person-centred approach, though I also integrate aspects of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and solution-focused therapy, if I feel these will be helpful and appropriate.

What’s the person-centred approach?

The approach recognises that some life experiences can stop you from feeling good about yourself and fulfilling your potential. It acknowledges that the best way to resolve your problems is to explore your feelings and thoughts is in a counselling relationship, with someone who you can trust to be on your side and see things from your point of view. By exploring your feelings and thoughts, together we can make sense of them and make sure they won’t bother you again. I also use elements of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and psychodynamics, such as coping techniques, to ensure you have the support you need in the present, and provide helpful strategies for the future.

Why do you think the person-centred approach works so well?

I firmly believe the person-centred approach represents the best way of achieving a long-term solution to your problems, enabling you to successfully deal with any identical or similar challenges in the future. While I complement this by working with you to devise and implement coping strategies, that will help you deal with your concerns in the short-term.

How long are the counselling sessions?

The sessions last for 1 hour, though longer sessions can be arranged for an agreed fee.

What should I expect at the first session?

I appreciate that you may feel nervous or anxious at the first session. It’s important for you to find a counsellor that you feel happy to explore your life experiences and work with. As such, at our first meeting, we’ll establish what your needs are and whether working together feels right for you. You’ll be able to ask me as many questions as you like about the counselling process, so you can find out exactly what our work together will involve.

How often should I have counselling?

You can discuss this with me at your initial session, but counselling is generally known to work best if you’re able to come on a weekly basis. But we can tailor this to suit your needs.

How long will I need to have counselling?

This will depend on the nature, complexity and severity of the issues. I usually suggest having a review of your progress every 6 weeks, so that we can see how you’re doing.

What happens if I only want to have a limited number of sessions?

No problem. Please make sure that you let me know before the first meeting. Then we can establish a specific set of goals during the first session, to ensure that we make the most of the time available.

Do you offer counselling by telephone, video-based or text-based online call?

Yes, I’m happy to arrange sessions on a face-to-face basis, as well as by telephone, video-based or text-based online call.

Do you offer home visits?

Yes, I’m happy to arrange home visits for no additional charge, throughout Wolverhampton, South Staffordshire and the West Midlands.

Is counselling confidential?

Yes, absolutely. I follow the guidelines of the ethical framework for the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). There are certain situations in which I may have a legal or ethical duty to disclose information, but I’ll explain more about these in your first session. I also work in strict compliance with the Data Protection Act (1998).

How do I make an appointment?

Please feel welcome to contact me by completing the enquiry form on this Contact me section of the website.