What happens in the first session?

In the first session we will explore your needs and what has brought you to counselling. Together we will set therapeutic goals and discuss how many sessions may be needed. I can offer short-term and long-term therapy on a weekly or fortnightly basis. I practice Person Centred Therapy, but as a trained integrative therapist, can combine a variety of approaches tailored to your needs.

How many sessions will I need?

The length of therapy is a personal decision that we’ll explore together in your first session. It depends on your goals, what you’d like to focus on, and the depth of work you wish to do.

Some clients benefit from short-term therapy (6–12 sessions) focused on specific challenges, while others choose to work in a more open-ended way over several months or years to support deeper growth and lasting change.

Where do sessions take place?

In-person sessions take place in a cosy private room in the heart of Manchester city centre. Remote sessions inc. telephone or video calls are also available to anyone living in the UK.

How often will I have sessions?

Sessions are usually held at the same time and day each week, providing consistency and rhythm to your therapy journey. I can also accommodate fortnightly appointments where preferred.

Are sessions confidential?

The counselling relationship is based on trust and confidentiality is paramount.

What you share with me remains between us, however there are a few exceptions listed below.

If you give consent for me to share information.

If there is risk of serious harm to you or someone else. I would discuss this with you prior to taking any action and hopefully we would reach a decision together of which course to take.

Where the law requires it, for example with terrorism, drug trafficking or money laundering.

I am required to attend monthly clinical supervision as part of ethical practice to keep clients and counsellors safe. This involves discussing all my clients work with my supervisor. However, identifying details are kept to a minimum and the supervisor is also bound by confidentiality.

I will regularly review with you whether the sessions are meeting your needs.

I am a registered member of the BACP and will work within their Ethical Framework. You can find this on their website, http://www.bacp.co.uk/.

Is there a cancellation policy?

If you need to cancel or re arrange an appointment please give as much notice as possible, your appointment day and time is reserved for you. Cancellations with less than 24 hours notice will incur a full charge.

I'm in crisis. What can I do?

Counselling is not crisis support.

Counselling offers a safe, confidential space to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences at your own pace. It’s a process that supports understanding, healing, and personal growth over time, not an immediate response service.

If you’re in crisis or need urgent help, it’s important to reach out for immediate support from services that can provide safety and rapid assistance.

If you are in crisis or need urgent help:

For young people:

  • Childline – 0800 1111 (24/7 free support)

  • YoungMinds Crisis Messenger – Text YM to 85258 for 24/7 mental health support

  • The Mix – 0808 808 4994 (for under 25s, 4pm–11pm daily)

For adults:

  • Samaritans – 116 123 (24/7 free support)

  • Shout – Text SHOUT to 85258 (24/7 text support service)

  • NHS 111 (option 2) – for urgent mental health advice or crisis help

  • In an emergency – call 999 or go to your nearest A&E

FAQs