There is so much to talk about. Where do I start?
This is a very commonly asked question and one that can also be a barrier to people receiving help in the first place. It can be quite overwhelming when receiving counselling for the first time or when you are faced with a lot of challenges in you life to know where to start. I will help you to prioritise and work out which issues or topics are most important for you to address first. Often once you start to share what feels overwhelming with a counsellor it can be easier to understand how different thoughts, feelings and behaviours connect and then together you can plan a way to work on the different areas.
How often should I come to counselling / hypnotherapy sessions?
When you begin having counselling or hypnotherapy I would recommend more regular appointments, perhaps weekly to build the trust and relationship and to give time to get to know each other and your story. However I understand that there are different factors which over time may influence how often you can attend. Time, work pressures, family commitments, finances can all influence how often you have therapy sessions. I will work with you to book in a time and schedule that suits you.
* I am always happy to discuss financial barriers to receiving counselling if this is something which is preventing you accessing the help you need*
How many sessions of counselling will I need?
There is not a set number of counselling sessions which each person will need. It is individual to the person, their needs and what they want to address. Some people may come for two or three sessions and find that they have much more that they want to discuss and for others they may have six sessions and find that they have achieved what they wanted to. In the first session we will discuss a plan for what you want to get out of your sessions and this will be revisited at different points to make sure your needs are being met.
What does a session of outdoor therapy look like?
Outdoor therapy can look different for different people. Some clients may want to walk when speaking to the counsellor, others may want to meet outdoors and sit and talk and others may want to do a combination of these. The location and what the session may look like will be agreed by both the therapist and the client prior to the session and will take into account the preferences of the client and also the physical and emotional needs which may influence the style of session. Many people find that being outside gives them the physical and mental space to discuss issues more freely and to relax into the counselling process.
What will happen in a hypnotherapy session?
Prior to your first hypnotherapy session you will have discussed your needs and aims with the therapist and they explain what hypnotherapy is and what you can expect from the sessions. After this initial consultation you will have your first session. During this session the therapist will guide you into a deep state of relaxation called hypnosis using a method most appropriate to you. Following the session you may feel uplifted, lighter and relaxed. Changes may be subtle as the work the therapist does is on you subconscious, but you may feel positive shift in how you are feeling.
If I'm hypnotised do l give up control?
No. Hypnosis is a state of relaxation and focused attention. You have the ability to emerge from hypnosis at any time you want. The hypnotherapist can be described as a guide taking you on a journey; the are the facilitator but any change can only be made by you. This means that hypnotherapy can be a very empowering therapeutic process.
How much do the sessions cost?
Counselling sessions cost £45 per 50 minute session
Hypnotherapy sessions cost £50 per 60 minute session
Discounts are available for block bookings and for those working for NHS/Emergency services or those on parental leave.
Please follow this link for further information on fees.