·       What can I expect? 

There are many benefits to having counselling. However, it can be challenging at times. Getting in touch with feelings can be difficult and painful and sometimes people experience a sense of 'getting worse' before things gets better. You can expect for me to remain by your side as your companion throughout the counselling relationship and treat you with warmth, empathy and respect at all times. 

·       What happens in an initial session? 

I offer an initial 50 minute introductory session for a reduced fee of £25 to see if you feel I am the right counsellor for you. It’s an opportunity for us to meet one other and discuss what brings you to counselling and for you to ask any questions that you may have. If you feel comfortable working together we can then discuss the counselling contract that covers confidentiality and agree the day, time and location of sessions. If you don’t feel I am the right practitioner for you I will endeavour to refer you to someone else who may be suitable.

• Face-to-face or online counselling…

I offer both face-to-face counselling and online counselling. Like so many of us, I began to work remotely during the various lockdowns and despite my initial reservations, I was pleasantly surprised to learn how a therapeutic relationship can develop online. Some people express they find it easier to open up over a video / phone session rather than meeting face-to-face, it’s really a personal choice. I’m happy to offer whatever works best for you.

·       How many sessions will I need?

You decide on the number of sessions. Some people prefer to work on an open-ended, long-term basis with regular reviews to see how therapy is progressing. Others prefer to work to a determined number of sessions on a short-term basis. We can discuss what feels right for you.

·       How much are sessions?  

£60 per 50-minute session. I am able to offer some concessions to students, those who are on a low-income and NHS workers. Please note I accept cash or payment via electronic bank transfer, payable either in advance or at the beginning of the session. 

·       What are the limits to confidentiality? 

Everything you discuss with me will be confidential. Written and digital notes will be stored securely and your name protected for anonymity. There are, however, certain legal exceptions regarding confidentiality (e.g. child protection, serious criminal activity). There is also an exception where they may be risk of serious harm to yourself or others. I will endeavour to discuss this with you where possible should such a situation arise.  

·       What happens if I want to book sessions for someone else? 

If you are a parent/carer and would like to book counselling sessions for your child or someone else please get in touch to discuss. I’m very happy to have a phone consultation and answer any questions you may have. Please note that regardless of age all sessions are confidential, exceptions as detailed above.

·       Practicing safely and ethically.

I am a fully insured, registered member (no. 00784137) of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy and abide by their ethical framework for good practice. This can be viewed at: https://www.bacp.co.uk/events-and-resources/ethics-and-standards/ethical-framework-for-the-counselling-professions. I have regular individual clinical supervision to review my practice and am committed to maintaining high professional standards in my work.

·       Where are you located?

Sadly I don’t have a beach hut! I have a bit of thing for them, hence the name! I work from some lovely private therapy rooms based Lansdowne Place, Hove (BN3 1FG) that are shared with other counselling professionals.

. How do I book an appointment? 

You can contact me any time either by email, phone or via the contact form on my contacts page. If I am unable to answer the phone please leave a voicemail or text and I will reply at my earliest opportunity.

·       I have some more questions that aren't answered here...

Please get in touch either by phone or via the contact form and I'll do my very best to answer any questions you may have.