Frequently Asked Questions

Every child or young person is different, so there isn’t a set formula. I work creatively and at each person’s pace. Some children enjoy talking, while others find it easier to express themselves through art, games, sand tray, creative activities or other therapeutic resources. My priority is creating a safe, welcoming space where they feel comfortable to be themselves.

The first step is a free 30-minute consultation, either with the young person (if appropriate) or with a parent or carer. This is an opportunity to discuss what has brought you to counselling, ask any questions, and decide whether I’m the right counsellor for you or your child. If we decide to work together, we’ll arrange regular weekly sessions during school term time.

Counselling sessions are £55 for 50 minutes and are paid on a session-by-session basis. Sessions take place in person at Abbey Meads, online, or by arrangement within schools. I work during school term time.

Building a trusting relationship is one of the most important parts of counselling, and this takes time. I’ll regularly review how counselling is progressing with your child or young person and, where appropriate, offer parents or carers brief updates while always respecting confidentiality. Around every six weeks, we’ll review together whether counselling continues to feel helpful and whether any changes are needed.

Counselling works best when children and young people know they have a private space where they can talk openly. For this reason, sessions are confidential. I won’t routinely share what has been discussed, but I will encourage children and young people to share things with you if they feel able. If there are concerns about someone’s safety or wellbeing, I will always act in line with my safeguarding responsibilities and discuss this with you wherever possible.

Yes. I offer both in-person and online counselling, depending on what is most suitable for you or your child. We’ll discuss the best option during the initial consultation.

There isn’t a set number of sessions, as every child and young person is different. Some people benefit from short-term counselling, while others need longer-term support. We’ll review the work regularly to make sure counselling continues to meet their needs.

The free 30-minute consultation is usually with the parent or carer, or with the young person if appropriate. Counselling sessions are then individual, as this helps build trust and provides a safe, confidential space. If a child is particularly anxious, we’ll discuss together what will help them feel comfortable.

That’s completely okay. Not every child finds it easy to talk straight away. I work creatively and at their pace, using activities such as art, games and other therapeutic resources to help them express themselves in ways that feel natural.

Finding the right counsellor is important. If, after the initial consultation or during our work together, it doesn’t feel like the right fit, we can discuss other options and, where appropriate, I can suggest alternative services.

Yes. I offer counselling within schools where appropriate and with the agreement of the school. I also work collaboratively with parents, carers and school staff to support a child’s wellbeing while maintaining appropriate confidentiality.

Yes. I have experience supporting children and young people with a range of additional needs, including neurodiversity. I adapt my approach to meet each person’s individual strengths, needs and communication style.

If you need to cancel or rearrange a session, I ask for at least 24 hours’ notice where possible. Sessions cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice may be charged. Full details can be found in my Counselling Agreement.

It’s completely normal to feel unsure. The free 30-minute consultation gives you the opportunity to ask questions, talk through your concerns and decide whether counselling feels right for you or your child. There’s no obligation to continue if it doesn’t feel like the right fit.

Simply get in touch by phone, email or by completing the contact form on my website. I’ll respond as soon as I can to arrange a free 30-minute consultation and answer any initial questions you may have.