Frequently Asked Questions
Looking for counselling or online therapy in York? My practice offers face-to-face counselling from my York base and online counselling for adults across York, North Yorkshire and around the UK.
I work with adults aged 18 and over, who are dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, bereavement, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, past trauma, or simply feeling stuck and needing a reflective, supportive space to think. My approach is warm, respectful and collaborative, and I offer a free 25-minute consultation to help you decide whether counselling with me feels right for you.
Here are my most frequently asked questions, they may help answer some of yours
What issues can counselling or therapy help me with?
Counselling can help with many of the difficulties, challenges and situations we all face in our everyday lives. At work, at home, with colleagues, family or partners, including anxiety, depression, stress, grief and bereavement, relationship problems, low self-esteem, trauma, and feeling overwhelmed or stuck.
You do not need to be in crisis to come to counselling. Some people come with a clear issue in mind, while others simply want support, space to reflect, or a better understanding of themselves and potentially unhelpful patterns or emotions in their lives.
What happens in your free 25-minute consultation?
My free 25-minute consultation is a chance to talk about what has brought you to counselling and what you are hoping for from therapy. There is no need to prepare anything in advance, and there is no pressure to share more than feels comfortable.
It is also a chance for me to explain how the practice works, answer any questions, and talk through practical details such as session format, confidentiality and next steps. The consultation is relaxed and informal, and it gives us both a chance to see whether working together feels like a good fit.
Do I need therapy or counselling – what’s the difference?
Many people, and professionals, treat them as close alternatives. “counselling” can feel more short-term and practical, while “therapy” can sound broader or deeper. There is no right or wrong; no one way or the other, the key is providing the right support for you and your situation.
How does online counselling work?
Online counselling works in much the same way as face-to-face, but sessions take place via a secure video call using Zoom or Microsoft Teams. These can be done from a laptop or smart phone. It can be a good option if you would prefer to have therapy from home, travel regularly, or you live outside York.
Before we begin online sessions, I will send out an agreement explaining how it works, what to expect and how privacy is protected. For each session, you will need a strong Internet connection, plus it helps to be somewhere quiet, private and comfortable, where you can speak freely without being interrupted.
Who do you work with?
I work with adults aged 18 and over from all walks of life and diverse backgrounds who are at different stages in their lives. You may be a student or a senior business professional, in fact, anyone looking for help with emotional or personal difficulties. My practice is inclusive, respectful and welcoming of people from all identities and life experiences.
How can I help a family member get counselling?
If you are trying to help a family member find counselling, a gentle and supportive conversation is often the best place to start. Let them know that counselling is available, share information about how it works to reduce stigma and their concerns, and offer to help them find a therapist if they want that support.
It’s important that the person chooses to make contact when they feel ready. You can encourage them, help with practical steps, and be there for them, but the decision to begin counselling rests with them.
Where is your counselling room?
My counselling room is to the North of York city centre, close to Melrosegate. There is free on-street parking nearby and local bus routes within a short walk.
More detailed directions, along with advice about parking or public transport, can be provided when you book a session.
How much does counselling cost?
My fee is £55 for a 50-minute counselling session. This applies to both face-to-face counselling and online sessions.
If you need to cancel or rearrange a session, please give at least 24 hours’ notice where possible. Sessions cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice may still be charged in full.
How many counselling sessions will I need?
The number of counselling sessions varies from person to person. Some people come for short-term counselling to focus on one issue, while others take a longer-term approach so they can explore things in more depth.
We can discuss your goals early on and review them together as our work continues. There is no fixed number of sessions, what’s important is that the pace feels manageable and useful to you.
What happens in the first counselling session?
The first full counselling session builds on the 25 minute free conversation. It usually includes talking more about what has brought you to therapy, what you would like support with, what, if anything has changed in the meantime, and what you hope to achieve.
It also includes ensuring you are happy with confidentiality, privacy and counselling agreements and to answer any questions you may still have. The first session is not about putting you on the spot; it is about helping you feel safe enough to begin.
How do I know if you are the right counsellor for me?
My approach is centered around a calm, non-judgemental and thoughtful space where you can talk openly and be listened to with care. I work in a client-centred way and draw on Transactional Analysis and other therapeutic approaches to help you understand yourself more clearly and work towards change where that feels important.
It may not be the right fit if you are looking for a very directive, advice-led style approach. My style is more about working together to help you find your own answers. My free consultation is there to help decide whether this feels like the right match.
I don’t offer specialist crisis support for severe mental health difficulties or active addiction.
I’m under 18. What are my options for counselling?
This counselling practice is for adults aged 18 and over. If you are under 18 and looking for support, a good place to start is with your school or college counsellor, your GP, or a local young person’s mental health service. Visit City of York Council website for youth services.
You can also contact Childline on 0800 1111 for free confidential support by phone or online. If needed, guidance can also be given towards services that may be more suitable for children and young people.
What should I do if I need urgent or crisis mental health support?
This counselling practice is not an emergency or crisis service. If you need urgent mental health support, contact your GP, NHS 111, or call 999 if you or someone else is at immediate risk of harm.
You can also contact Samaritans on 116 123 for free, confidential support at any time, day or night. If you need immediate medical or psychiatric help, please go to your nearest A&E department.