Frequently Asked Questions

What can counselling help with?

Counselling can help with a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties, including anxiety, trauma, stress, low self-esteem, emotional overwhelm, ADHD-related challenges, relationship difficulties, and feeling stuck or disconnected.

You do not need to be in crisis to seek support.

Therapy can provide a space to explore what your diagnosis means for you and develop a better understanding of yourself.

How do I know if therapy is right for me?

Many people feel unsure before starting therapy, especially if it is their first time seeking support.

You do not need to have everything figured out before reaching out. The first session provides an opportunity to discuss what has brought you to therapy, ask any questions you may have, and explore whether working together feels like the right fit for you.

What happens during the first session?

The first session is a gentle starting point where we explore what has brought you to therapy and what support you are looking for.

There is no pressure to discuss anything you are not ready to share. Sessions move at a pace that feels safe and comfortable for you.

Together, we can begin to understand what feels difficult, explore patterns, and identify what may help you moving forward.

How much does counselling cost?

Your first 50-minute counselling session is offered at a reduced fee of £30 (usual fee £60).

This gives you the opportunity to experience therapy, explore what has brought you here, and decide whether working together feels right for you.

There is no obligation to continue after your first session.

Ongoing counselling sessions are £60 per 50-minute session.

A reduced fee of £50 per 50-minute session is available for trainee counsellors.

When is payment required?

Payment is kindly requested at least 24 hours before your scheduled session.

What if I have an emergency and need to cancel at short notice?

I understand that emergencies and unexpected situations can happen. While cancellations with less than 24 hours' notice may still be charged in full, as the appointment time has been reserved specifically for you, please get in touch as soon as possible — each situation will be considered individually, with understanding and compassion.

Do I need a diagnosis to start therapy?

No. You do not need a diagnosis or a specific reason to start therapy.

If something is affecting your emotional wellbeing, relationships, confidence, or daily life, therapy may still be beneficial.

Can therapy help with a late ADHD diagnosis?

Receiving an ADHD diagnosis later in life can bring a mixture of relief, confusion, sadness, frustration, or grief.

Many adults begin looking back at past experiences differently and start to understand how feeling misunderstood, criticised, or unsupported may have affected their confidence and sense of self.

Therapy can provide a space to explore what your diagnosis means for you, develop self-understanding, and build a more compassionate relationship with yourself.

How many sessions will I need?

There is no fixed number of sessions.

Some people come for short-term support, while others benefit from longer-term therapy.

We can discuss this together and work in a way that feels appropriate for your individual needs.

What type of therapy do you offer?

I work integratively, meaning I draw from different therapeutic approaches and tailor sessions to your individual needs.

My work is informed by:

• Person-Centred Therapy

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

• Gestalt Therapy

• Transactional Analysis (TA)

• Trauma-informed practice

This allows therapy to be flexible, supportive, and focused on your individual experience.

Is counselling confidential?

Yes. Counselling sessions are confidential, private, and non-judgemental.

Any limits to confidentiality will be explained clearly during our initial work together.

What if I feel nervous about starting therapy?

Feeling nervous before starting therapy is completely understandable.

Many people feel anxious about talking about difficult emotions, especially if they are used to coping alone or putting other people’s needs before their own.

Therapy is a space where you can go at your own pace, without pressure or judgement.

Do you offer online counselling?

Yes. I provide online counselling sessions across the UK via secure video call.

Online therapy can offer flexibility and convenience, allowing you to access support from a space where you feel comfortable.

Do you offer face-to-face counselling?

Yes. I offer face-to-face counselling in Portsmouth, Hampshire.

In-person sessions provide a private and confidential space where you can focus on yourself and your wellbeing.

How do I book a session?

You can book using the "Book Your First Session" button, which will take you to a contact form to get in touch. From there, we can discuss what brings you to counselling, answer any questions you may have, and arrange your first session — offered at a reduced fee of £30.