What Can I Expect?
Frequently Asked Questions…
How long are sessions?
Standard sessions last 60 minutes. If you feel that you would prefer a longer or shorter session, please let me know as I am open to hearing what feels right for you.
How much do sessions cost and how do I pay?
Sessions are £50 and payment can be made by bank transfer. Further details can be found in my Payment Information Sheet which is sent out after a session is booked in.
Do you do discounts or reduced rates?
I am open to a discussion about personal circumstances and may be able to offer a reduced rate, although these session places are limited. I offer a block booking discount of 6 sessions for £270 (£45 per session).
Where will we meet?
Sessions can be booked face-to-face or online. If online, I will send you a unique, private link that can be used for every session. I work face-to-face at the Melanoma Me Charity in Washington (NE37) on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. On Fridays, I work face-to-face in Heaton (NE6). There is free, local parking, tea and coffee and a lovely, friendly atmosphere.
(Please note that Melanoma Me is wheelchair accessible with step-free access, whereas Heaton is not)
The counselling room at Melanoma Me.
The counselling room in Heaton.
Can I cancel a session or rearrange?
I appreciate that sometimes life happens and you may not be able to make your appointment. With enough notice (normally 48 hours), you are welcome to cancel your appointment, however, last minute cancellations may incur a fee. If it is possible and suits both of our diaries, I am open to being flexible and rearranging sessions.
Do I have to have a session every week?
I recommend weekly sessions, however I am open to discussing whatever feels right for you.
How long does counselling take?
This is completely dependant on you and your needs. You may find that 6 sessions is enough for you to reach your goal or to resolve a specific issue or you may find it helpful to see a counsellor for a longer period of time to support you through a difficult time. We will review how the sessions are going regularly and you will be able to reflect on how you feel as well as give feedback. You are able to request to end sessions whenever you feel ready.
How do I end counselling?
You are welcome to let me know when you feel it might be time to end counselling. I always find an ‘ending’ session a helpful way to ‘close the book’. I have an open door policy, where you are welcome to request to return to counselling sessions if you feel you need it.
What is a counselling contract and why do I have to sign it?
It is standard practice for all counsellors to agree a contract with their clients. A counsellor/client relationship is a unique one and it is important to be clear about the boundaries, expectations and ethical considerations within that relationship. The contract helps us know where we stand with each other and is open to being adapted to suit the client. By signing the contract, you are agreeing to work together in the way described. I am happy to share a copy of the counselling contract with you before you book a session if it is helpful.
Can you make adaptations to the sessions to accommodate my needs?
Every human being is unique and an expert in themselves. If you feel that the sessions may need to be adapted in any way to help you access them, that is something we can discuss at the initial session. For example, you may find it helpful to be sent reminders before the session or need support using the online system. In the counselling room, lighting, furniture, temperature, etc, can be adapted to individual preferences.
Do you keep everything that I tell you confidential?
Confidentiality is an important element of the counselling process and, as a member of the BACP, I adhere to the Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions which states we will protect the confidentiality and privacy of all clients. The counselling contract and initial session will make it clear what the limitations are to confidentiality.
Do you record sessions or take notes? How do I know my information is safe with you?
I have never recorded a session and would never do so without explicit permission and good reason. Any notes that are taken regarding sessions are limited to important factual information. All personal information held about you will either be held on the clinical software platform Kiku, which is GDPR compliant, or Google Drive. All information and devices will be password protected and stored securely. Information can only be passed on to a third party at your explicit request, under circumstances specified in the counselling contract or through a legal order. For further information, please download my Privacy Notice.
LucyJayne Counselling 