Frequently Asked Questions

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I start with a free 15-minute telephone consultation — either with a parent/carer or directly with the young person — to understand their needs, answer questions, and explain how I work. Before counselling begins, the child or young person is offered a short visit to meet me and see the space. This helps them feel safe, comfortable, and confident about starting counselling. Once everyone is ready, the counselling agreement and information form are completed before the first session.

The first session is a gentle “getting to know you” session. We focus on building trust and exploring what has brought them to counselling. We also go through confidentiality, so they know their space is safe. Counselling sessions are held one-to-one, allowing the child or young person to speak freely, explore their thoughts and feelings safely, and take the lead in their own journey.

Every child and young person is different, so there isn’t a fixed number of sessions. Some children may need a few weeks, but it is common for therapy to last longer, as the therapeutic relationship takes time to form and trust is built gradually. We regularly review progress to make sure the sessions continue to meet your child’s needs and goals.

That’s completely normal. Many children find it hard to put their feelings into words at first. I use creative and play-based approaches — including art, music, storytelling, and games — so your child can express themselves in a way that feels safe and natural. Talking often becomes easier once trust has been established.

Yes — all one-to-one sessions are confidential. The exception is if I have a concern that your child or someone else may be at risk of harm. In that case, I have a duty of care to share information with the appropriate people to keep everyone safe. I explain this clearly to children and parents at the start of therapy.

Where it is appropriate, I offer brief 15-minute telephone check-ins, arranged in advance at a time that works for you. This may depend on the age and capacity of the child or young person, and any check-ins take place with their knowledge and agreement. 

These conversations focus on general wellbeing and supportive strategies for home or school, rather than the content of therapy sessions. They are occasional rather than frequent, usually offered after the first six weeks, and only when it is clinically helpful to do so. This allows parents to stay connected while protecting the young person’s confidentiality and therapeutic space. 

I am also happy to respond to brief practical questions by email in between sessions and will do my best to reply in a timely way.

My main focus is on the therapeutic work with the child or young person, so I only provide written reports when they are genuinely needed and in the best interest of the work. Reports and summaries are not included in session fees and are charged separately due to the time required for preparation. This would always be discussed and agreed in advance.