Counselling FAQs

What happens in the first counselling session?

The first session is an opportunity for us to explore what has brought you to therapy and what you hope to gain from it. You are welcome to talk at your own pace in a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental space.

How do I know if counselling is right for me?

Counselling can help if you are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, low in mood, emotionally stuck, struggling in relationships, or finding it difficult to cope with life events or past experiences.

Is counselling confidential?

Yes, counselling is confidential. There are some rare exceptions where I may need to break confidentiality if there are serious concerns about safety or safeguarding, which would always be discussed where possible.

How many counselling sessions will I need?

There is no set number of sessions, as therapy is different for everyone. Some people benefit from short-term support, while others choose longer-term therapy to explore deeper issues.

How long is each session?

Counselling sessions usually last 50 minutes.

Do you offer online counselling?

Yes, I offer secure online counselling sessions for adults across Dorset and throughout the UK.

What issues can counselling help with?

Counselling can support a wide range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, burnout, and emotional overwhelm.

Do I need to prepare for therapy?

No preparation is needed. Many people feel unsure before their first session, and that is completely understandable. We can simply begin wherever feels comfortable for you.

What if I find it difficult to talk?

That is absolutely okay. Therapy is not about pressure or having the “right words.” We can work gently and at your pace.

Can counselling help with anxiety?

Yes, counselling can help you better understand anxiety, identify triggers, and develop healthier ways of coping and feeling more emotionally grounded.

Can counselling help with depression?

Counselling can provide support for low mood, hopelessness, emotional exhaustion, and loss of motivation, helping you feel more supported and understood.

Can counselling help with relationship difficulties?

Yes, therapy can help you explore patterns within relationships, improve communication, process hurt or loss, and develop healthier boundaries.

Can counselling help with grief and bereavement?

Grief affects everyone differently. Counselling offers a compassionate space to process loss and make sense of the emotions that can come with bereavement.

Can therapy help with low self-esteem?

Therapy can help you understand how past experiences may have affected your confidence and self-worth while supporting healthier self-belief over time.

EMDR Therapy FAQs

What is EMDR therapy?

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing. It is a therapy designed to help people process traumatic or distressing experiences that may still feel emotionally overwhelming.

How does EMDR therapy work?

EMDR helps the brain reprocess difficult memories so they become less distressing over time. Bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or tapping, may be used during sessions.

What can EMDR help with?

EMDR can help with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, panic attacks, childhood trauma, phobias, grief, medical trauma, and distressing life experiences.

Is EMDR effective?

EMDR is a well-researched therapy and is recommended by organisations such as  the WHO (World Health Organisation) for the treatment of trauma and PTSD.

Will I have to talk in detail about traumatic memories?

Not necessarily. EMDR does not require you to describe every detail of a traumatic experience. Therapy is approached carefully and at a pace that feels manageable for you.

Is EMDR emotionally intense?

Some people may find parts of EMDR emotionally activating, particularly when processing difficult memories. Your safety and emotional stability are always prioritised throughout therapy.

How many EMDR sessions will I need?

This depends on your experiences and goals. Single-event trauma may require fewer sessions, while more complex or longstanding trauma may take longer.

Can EMDR help with childhood trauma?

Yes, EMDR can help process painful childhood experiences that may still affect emotional wellbeing, relationships, confidence, or anxiety in adulthood.

Can EMDR help with anxiety?

Yes, EMDR can help when anxiety is linked to distressing experiences, traumatic memories, or situations that continue to feel emotionally triggering.

Is EMDR suitable for everyone?

EMDR may not be suitable immediately for everyone, particularly if someone is feeling very emotionally overwhelmed or unsafe. Preparation and stabilisation are important parts of the process.

Practical FAQs

Where are you based?

I offer counselling and EMDR therapy for clients in Bournemouth, Poole, and Christchurch, as well as online sessions across Dorset and throughout the UK.

Do you offer face-to-face sessions?

Yes, face-to-face sessions are available.

How much do sessions cost?

Please contact me for current counselling and EMDR therapy fees or check my cost of service page.

What payment methods do you accept?

Payment details can be discussed when arranging your appointment.

Do you accept Bupa clients?

Yes, I am a recognised therapist with .

What is your cancellation policy?

I ask for at least 48 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or rearrange an appointment. Late cancellations  are still charged.

Is there parking available?

Parking is available nearby in the street.

How do I book an appointment?

You can get in touch via the contact form or by telephone to arrange an initial appointment or ask any questions.

What if I still have questions?

You are very welcome to contact me if you would like to discuss therapy, EMDR, or whether counselling may be right for you.