counselling • psychotherapy • mindfulness
faq
Whether you’re new to therapy or returning, these FAQs explain how the process works and what you can expect along the way
What is counselling and psychotherapy?
Counselling and Psychotherapy, are often called talking therapies, they provide a safe and confidential space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Together, we look at what may be keeping you stuck, identify patterns in how you think or respond, and work towards new ways of coping and relating. The therapeutic relationship itself is central, it offers support, honesty, and a chance to see yourself more clearly, helping you move towards growth and wellbeing.
Counselling typically focuses on specific challenges or life situations, such as stress, relationship issues, or work difficulties and is often shorter-term and solution-focused.
Psychotherapy goes deeper, exploring underlying patterns, emotions, and long-standing issues that may be affecting well-being. It is often longer-term and aims to support deeper personal insight and lasting change.
Is everything I tell you confidential?
Yes. What you share in therapy is kept private and treated with respect, in line with the BACP Ethical Framework and legal requirements. There are a few exceptions, such as if there is risk of serious harm to yourself or others, concerns about the safety of a child or vulnerable adult, or if required by law. I also discuss my work in clinical supervision to maintain safe and ethical practice, but your identity is never disclosed. Wherever possible, I will talk to you first if confidentiality needs to be broken.
What kind of issues do you work with?
I work with adults experiencing a wide range of emotional and psychological challenges. This may include anxiety, depression, stress at work, burnout, difficulties in relationships, trauma, bereavement and loss, anger, self-esteem, or navigating life changes such as career shifts or becoming a parent.
Support can be short-term and focused on specific concerns, or longer-term to explore deeper, more complex issues. I also help clients adjust to new diagnoses and make sense of what this means for them personally, offering space to reflect and develop coping strategies.
Can you support busy schedules?
I understand that life can feel full and unpredictable, which is why I aim to make therapy as accessible as possible. Alongside in-person appointments, I also offer online sessions, giving you the flexibility to attend from home or work if needed. We can work together to find a regular appointment time that suits your lifestyle, so therapy remains a consistent and supportive part of your week.
What if I'm worried about talking about personal or traumatic experiences?
It’s natural to feel uncertain or anxious about opening up, especially when it comes to painful or deeply personal experiences. In my practice, I offer a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental space where you can share at your own pace. You are always in control of what you choose to talk about, and there is no pressure to disclose anything before you feel ready. Building trust together is an important part of the process, and your wellbeing will always be at the heart of our work.
I’ve been feeling ‘stuck’ or unmotivated, can therapy help me find direction?
Yes. Many people go through times when life feels flat or without purpose, whether that’s connected to work, relationships, or personal challenges. In therapy, we can explore what might be keeping you stuck and work together to set realistic goals, build motivation, and reconnect with the things that matter most to you.
What if I don’t have depression or anxiety, can therapy still help?
Absolutely. Therapy isn’t only for people with a mental health diagnosis. Many clients come to therapy for personal growth, self-reflection, or to improve relationships and communication. Even without a specific condition, therapy can help you gain self-awareness, build resilience, and make positive changes in your life.
I’ve tried therapy before but didn’t find it helpful. Should I give it another go?
Yes. Every therapy experience is different, and sometimes it can take time to find the right therapist or approach. If a previous experience didn’t feel right for you, it doesn’t mean therapy can’t be effective. My approach is integrative, which means I adapt the way I work to suit your needs. Our first session is a chance to talk about what hasn’t worked before and how we can make this experience more helpful for you.
How long will I need to be in therapy?
The length of therapy varies from person to person. Some people benefit from just a few sessions to focus on a specific issue, while others choose longer-term therapy to explore patterns and experiences in more depth. We can discuss your goals early on, and review your progress together as we go, so that therapy feels right for you.
Do you offer online sessions as well as face-to-face?
Yes. I work both in-person from three locations in Great Moor and Marple and online via secure video sessions. This flexibility means you can choose the option that best suits your lifestyle, whether you prefer the comfort of home or the connection of meeting face-to-face.
Is there a limit to how many sessions I can have?
There’s no set limit. The number of sessions depends on your needs, goals, and circumstances. Therapy is a collaborative process, and we’ll regularly review your progress together. When it’s time to end, we’ll do so openly and thoughtfully, ensuring you leave with a sense of closure and understanding.
What happens if the internet connection breaks down?
Technical issues can happen, and I want to make sure your session is as smooth as possible. I use reliable, up-to-date equipment and secure connections, and I recommend you do the same. If the connection drops, I will call you so we can continue the session by phone.
If a session cannot continue due to my technical issues, you will not be charged and we will reschedule. If the disruption is due to your connection, the session will still be billed as usual.
Do you work with couples?
I do not currently work with couples.
Do you work with children?
Whilst I do have some experience of working with children and young people, my clients are predominantly 18 and over. For therapists that work with children, I would suggest visiting counselling directory or Psychology Today.
How do I decide between Psychotherapy or mindfulness?
If you’re unsure whether mindfulness or counselling/psychotherapy is right for you, you may be wondering, what’s the difference? A simple way to understand it is:
Counselling & Psychotherapy focus on exploring past experiences and current challenges in a safe, confidential and compassionate space. This process helps you work through emotions, gain clarity, and find healing.
Mindfulness is about being fully present in the present moment, accepting thoughts and feelings without judgment. Practices like meditation can help reduce stress, manage anxiety, and enhance overall well-being.
Choosing between mindfulness and therapy depends on your needs and goals. If you’re looking to improve self-awareness and manage everyday stress, mindfulness may be beneficial for you. However, for deeper emotional struggles or complex mental health concerns, professional therapy is likely the better option.
What would stop me from practicing mindfulness?
While mindfulness can offer many benefits, it may not be suitable for everyone. Certain physical and psychological conditions require extra caution or may be contraindicated altogether. For example, individuals with severe, uncontrolled asthma or epilepsy that is not fully managed should consult a medical professional before engaging in mindfulness practices, as certain techniques (such as deep breathing or body scans) may trigger symptoms.
Furthermore, those experiencing severe psychological distress, including active psychosis, severe depression, or untreated PTSD, may find some practices destabilising.
In these cases, mindfulness should only be approached under the guidance of a doctor or other medical professional.