Here are some Frequently Asked Questions that may help you to decide if counselling is what you are looking for. I hope they are useful. If you have any further questions, please contact me
What is Counselling?
Counselling is a confidential space where you (the client) and a qualified professional (the counsellor) will work together to explore your concerns, worries and issues. A therapeutic space where you can identify and work towards reducing any emotional distress, increasing your self-awareness and developing healthy coping skills.
How can counselling support me?
Counselling can be used to address various kinds of emotional and psychological distress and the causes of distress. Counselling can help to support you to build confidence, and increase your self-awareness, forming healthy habits and coping strategies.
For example, you might be feeling anxious, sad, fearful, uptight or stressed and you might be experiencing or have experienced relationships issues, family conflicts, workplace stress, pandemic-related anxiety, trauma, low motivation, or low self-confidence.
Counselling can also be useful if you’re simply trying to figure out yourself and life. It gives you the space to explore who you are and what you really want from life.
Is counselling confidential?
It is. However, it’s important for me to mention that as a professionally qualified counsellor, occasionally there are circumstances where I cannot legally or ethically maintain confidentiality.
In order to protect you (the client) or another I may need to share information but wherever possible this is done with your consent and the reasons for this are discussed with you before this happens.
What can I expect during my first appointment with you?
The first appointment is an opportunity for us to begin getting to know each other. I will take some time to explain the way I work and what that might look like in the weeks ahead and you will have the opportunity to ask me any questions you may have about counselling. I may ask you to tell me what has brought you to me and to counselling and whether there is anything specific you are wanting to talk about and work with during our time together.
What if I don’t know why I’m here?
There is no pressure for you to answer any questions that you don’t feel comfortable answering and if you don’t know why you are here, then we can spend some time exploring what’s happening in your life at the moment. This might be in your personal life, or at work, or something completely different. I offer a space of non-judgement, which means that I try my best to create an environment where you feel safe and comfortable.
How many sessions will I need?
I offer open-ended counselling sessions and so our work together can be short, medium or long-term, dependent on your preference and requirements. As counselling is a gradual process, the total number of sessions required varies considerably based on your concerns and level of distress.
How frequently do I need to see my counsellor?
Counselling usually takes place on a weekly basis, but I will work with you to understand what suits you best. We can take it one appointment at a time, or we can block book in a specific day and time, if that suits you best.
How long does a counselling session last?
Individual counselling sessions are 50 minutes.
How much does counselling cost?
Counselling sessions for individuals cost £50, which can be paid prior to or on the day of the appointment. (Cash, Bank Transfer or Credit / Debit Card). If you need to cancel your appointment, 48 hours notice is required. If you cancel your appointment with less than 48 hours notice, the full fee is charged. Appointments cancelled before 48 hours can be rescheduled.
When can I see you?
I offer in-person and remote appointments Monday to Thursday. Daytime and evening appointment slots are available on various days and locations in Norfolk and I will work with you to find a suitable appointment time. Occasionally, Friday and weekend appointments are also available.
Please contact me for exact locations and appointment times available.
How do I book a session?
Please give me a call on 07889 295959 or email me: jo@innerspaceworks.com
If I have more questions, who do I ask?
Please email or call me using the details above. I offer a free 20-minute telephone or Zoom consultation, which is an opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have about counselling and the way I work. It is important that you find the right counsellor for you.