Our first session

Our initial appointment allows space for us to meet in person, to talk about what you want to get out of counselling and for us to consider whether or not we are a good 'fit'. This session provides the opportunity to ask questions and ensure a good match between what I offer and what you need. 

In that first meeting, my aim will be to gather sufficient understanding of your current situation to be able make suitable recommendations as to the kind of therapeutic interventions likely to be of most value to you. If we decide to continue, we will contract for a number of weekly sessions.

This introductory session is more about creating the foundations for our work together and addressing any questions that arise. While you might feel a compunction to describe everything that has contributed to you reaching this point, I accept that it isn't possible to explain everything and it may just as valuable to simply explore what it's like to sit together in the therapy room.

A therapeutic relationship is most effective where there is good rapport between client and therapist. It is through the strength of this relationship that much of the work is done. It is therefore paramount that we feel some affinity between us and consider if it feels possible that we might meet in an atmosphere of empathy, acceptance and trust.

I work holistically to help you achieve personal clarity and beneficial change at a pace that feels comfortable to you. In the course of our work, I will invite you to focus on your immediate awareness and discover the impact of your perceptions on present difficulties. As well as exploring past experiences and future goals. we will also pay attention to what occurs in the relational space between us.