Our Frequently Asked Questions
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Frequently asked counselling questions:
The terms “counselling” and “therapy” are often used interchangeably, but they can have slightly different connotations.
counselling generally refers to the process of working with a trained professional to address specific issues or concerns, such as relationship problems, stress, or career challenges. It can be short-term and goal-oriented.
Therapy, on the other hand, can refer to a broader range of mental health treatments that may be longer-term and focus on underlying emotional or psychological issues. Therapy may include different approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy, psychoanalytic therapy, etc.
However, in practice, the distinction between counselling and therapy can be subtle and many professionals use both terms interchangeably. Both counselling and therapy involve working with a trained professional to address emotional, mental, and behavioural issues, and both can be effective in helping people improve their mental health and overall well-being.
In summary, while counselling and therapy can have slightly different connotations, they both involve working with a trained professional to address emotional and mental health concerns. They both have the same goal of helping the person to improve their well-being.
- Talk about their concerns, thoughts, and feelings in a safe and confidential environment.
- Work with the counsellor to identify specific goals and objectives.
- Learn new coping strategies and ways of thinking to improve their mental health and well-being.
- Receive feedback and guidance from the counsellor.
- Reflect on their progress and identify areas for improvement.
- Be encouraged to take an active role in their own healing and personal growth.
The length of the counseling process can vary depending on the individual’s specific needs and goals. Some people may only need a few sessions to address a specific concern, while others may benefit from ongoing counseling to address more complex or long-term issues.
Counseling sessions usually last 50 minutes, and the frequency of the sessions will depend on the individual’s needs, goals, and the counselor’s recommendations. Some people may benefit from weekly sessions, while others may need more or less frequent sessions.
Short-term counseling, also known as solution-focused therapy, typically involves 6-20 sessions and focuses on addressing specific problems and finding solutions. Long-term counseling, also called psychoanalytic therapy, can last for several months to years and aims to help clients understand and work through deep-seated issues
It’s important to note that the counseling process is unique to each individual, and the length of the process will depend on the individual’s specific needs and goals. The counselor will work with the individual to create a treatment plan that addresses their concerns and will monitor progress to ensure that the counseling is effective.
In summary, the length of the counseling process can vary depending on the individual’s specific needs and goals, and can range from a few sessions to several months or years. The counselor will work with the individual to create a treatment plan and monitor progress to ensure that the counseling is effective.
Some people may benefit from weekly sessions, while others may need more or less frequent sessions.
From £75.00 per individual session*.
*5% reduction if a block of 6 sessions or more is booked.
It is worth checking with your health insurers as the criteria differs from provider to provider
We offer you a free 20 minutes phone or video call so that you can meet your counsellor, ask any questions and ensure you are comfortable with their working approach before you commit to therapy.
Yes, all our counsellors are governed by a strict code of conduct and confidentiality is paramount.
Frequently asked questions for online counselling:
- Increased access to therapy: Remote counselling can increase access to therapy for individuals who live in areas where there is a shortage of mental health professionals.
- Greater flexibility in scheduling appointments: Remote counselling allows individuals to schedule appointments at times that are convenient for them, which can be beneficial for individuals who have busy schedules.
- Anonymity: Remote counselling can provide a level of anonymity for individuals who may be hesitant to seek therapy in person.
- Cost-effective: Remote counselling can be more cost-effective than in-person therapy, as it eliminates the need for transportation and can save time.
- A continuity of care: Remote counselling allows individuals to continue therapy even when they are travelling or moving to a different location.
It’s important to note that remote counselling should only be conducted by trained professionals and it’s not a substitute for medical care. People with severe mental health conditions or under the influence of certain medications should consult with their healthcare provider before starting remote counselling.
In-person counselling and remote counselling are both forms of therapy that can be used to help individuals with mental health concerns. However, there are some key differences between the two:
- Location: In-person counselling typically takes place in an office setting, whereas remote counselling can be conducted from any location, as long as the individual has access to a secure internet connection.
- Convenience: In-person counselling requires individuals to travel to and from the therapist’s office, which can be time-consuming and inconvenient. Remote counselling allows individuals to receive therapy from the comfort of their own home or any other location, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals who have mobility issues, live in remote areas, or have busy schedules.
- Access to therapy: In-person counselling may be more widely available in urban areas, but remote counselling can increase access to therapy for individuals who live in areas where there is a shortage of mental health professionals.
- Flexibility: In-person counselling typically requires individuals to schedule appointments during regular business hours, whereas remote counselling allows individuals to schedule appointments at times that are convenient for them.
- Anonymity: In-person counselling may not provide the same level of anonymity as remote counselling, which can be beneficial for individuals who may be hesitant to seek therapy in person.
- Cost-effectiveness: Remote counselling can be more cost-effective than in-person therapy, as it eliminates the need for transportation and can save time.
Both in-person counselling and remote counselling can be effective forms of therapy, and the choice between the two will depend on the individual’s needs and preferences.
From £70.00 per 50 minutes*
*5% reduction if a block of 6 or more sessions are booked in advance.
Frequently asked children and young person counselling questions:
This can help them to develop a sense of self-awareness and to learn how to take care of their own mental health.
Children may find it difficult to talk about their concerns with friends and family members but counselling provides a safe and confidential, non-judgemental environment for them to do so.
Counselling can help prevent the development of more serious mental health problems. Early intervention and support can be crucial in preventing the development of more serious mental health problems.
It can help them improve their relationships with family, friends and peers.
Improvement of overall well-being helps develop resilience, self-esteem and can lead to overall well-being, develop healthy communication and problem solving skills.
Counselling is tailored to the specific needs of the child.
From £70.00 for 50 minutes
Frequently asked couples and relationship counselling questions:
- Identify and understand the sources of conflict and dissatisfaction in the relationship
- Communicate more effectively by teaching them how to express their thoughts and feelings in a healthy way
- Learn how to listen actively and empathise with one another
- Learn how to resolve conflicts in a constructive way
- Build trust and intimacy
- Develop new skills to improve the relationship
- Work through past issues that may be impacting the current relationship
Couples counselling is a form of therapy that helps couples improve their relationship by addressing and resolving conflicts and communication issues. It aims to help couples communicate effectively, resolve conflicts, and build a stronger, more satisfying relationship.
Sessions are typically 60 minutes.
£95 per session*
*5% reduction when a block of 6 sessions is booked and paid for.
It is advisable for both parties to attend to ensure the maximum benefit and sharing is obtained from each session.
Yes all sessions are confidential.
Frequently asked EMDR/IEMT questions:
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a type of psychotherapy that was originally developed to treat individuals who have experienced traumatic events such as physical or sexual abuse, combat, or natural disasters. It uses elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy along with bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, taps or tones, to help individuals process traumatic memories and reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other conditions such as anxiety and depression.
IEMT (Integral Eye Movement Therapy) is a therapy method that is based on EMDR and developed by Andrew T. Austin, a UK-based therapist. It is a method for resolving negative thoughts, emotions, and memories that are causing problems in an individual’s life. Like EMDR, IEMT uses elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy and bilateral stimulation, but it places more emphasis on the use of specific language patterns to help clients reframe and change the way they think about the memory. Both EMDR and IEMT are considered to be relatively short-term therapies and are used to help individuals with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, phobias, and PTSD.
IEMT is based on the idea that negative thoughts, emotions, and memories are stored in the brain in a specific way, and that by accessing and changing the way the memory is stored, it can be transformed into a more positive and useful experience.
American Psychiatric Association and the World Health Organization.
It is also not recommended for individuals who have severe or active mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
From £85 per 60 minutes
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and IEMT (Integral Eye Movement Therapy) are both types of psychotherapy that use elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy and bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements) to help individuals process traumatic memories and reduce the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other conditions such as anxiety and depression.
The main difference between the two is in their origin and development. EMDR was developed by an American clinical psychologist named Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, it is widely recognized by professional organizations such as the American Psychiatric Association and the World Health Organization. EMDR is a well-established and research-supported therapy for PTSD and other conditions.
IEMT, on the other hand, was developed by Andrew T. Austin, a UK-based therapist, it is considered a relatively new approach and not as widely used as EMDR. It is not recognized by professional organizations such as EMDR is.
Both EMDR and IEMT use bilateral stimulation such as eye movements to help individuals process and integrate traumatic memories. However, IEMT places more emphasis on the use of specific language patterns to help clients reframe and change the way they think about the memory, while EMDR focuses more on the bilateral stimulation and the therapist’s guidance.
IEMT is considered a relatively new approach and not as widely used as EMDR. It is not recognized by professional organizations as EMDR is. However, some practitioners and clients have reported positive results from using this approach.
Vanessa Boudier,
Debbie Winyard,
Keri Powell
Frequently asked Hypnotherapy questions:
Yes it is completely safe, the only side effects are positive, beneficial ones! It is using the natural power of the mind to resolve unwanted habits or behaviour or relieve symptoms without the need for tablets or drugs. It is non-addictive and completely safe without any unpleasant or unwanted side effects.
Yes all the time. You do not go ‘out’, ‘under’ or ‘to sleep’. You are not unconscious. You can hear and understand everything that is being said. Nothing happens without your consent. You can remain in an extremely relaxed state knowing that you have absolute control.
Your therapist will guide you into a relaxed state of hypnosis by gently talking to your mind and often using body relaxation methods such as progressive relaxation.
Hypnotherapy is a type of therapy that uses hypnosis, a state of deep relaxation and focus, to help individuals change certain behaviours, thoughts, or feelings.
You will be perfectly fine to drive and do all usual activities afterwards.
You will be able to remember what you need to remember from each session.
From £85.00
Typically 60 minutes
Keri Powell
Nicole Biggs
Debbie Winyard
Frequently asked Coaching questions
Coaching typically involves several steps, including:
- Assessment: The coach will begin by assessing the client’s current situation, including their goals, strengths, weaknesses, and any obstacles that may be standing in the way of achieving their goals.
- Goal-setting: Together, the coach and client will set specific, measurable, and achievable goals that align with the client’s overall vision.
- Action plan: The coach will help the client develop an action plan to achieve their goals. This plan will include specific steps and strategies that the client can implement to move forward.
- Implementation: The client will begin implementing the action plan, with the coach providing support and guidance along the way. The coach may also use various techniques such as active listening, questioning, and providing feedback to help the client stay on track.
- Review and Adjustment: The coach will periodically review the client’s progress and make adjustments to the action plan as needed. The coach also encourages the client to reflect on their progress and learn from their experiences.
- Accountability: The coach holds the client accountable for achieving their goals and making progress towards them. This can be done through regular check-ins and progress reports.
The coach and the client work together to create a safe and confidential space where the client can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours and make meaningful changes to improve their life.
This will be discussed with you and approximate timeframes agreed at the initial appointment.
Life and Wellness Coaching – from £85.00 per 1 hour session*
Business and Executive Coaching – from £150 per 1 hour session*
5% reduction when a block of 6 sessions or more is booked in advance.
Frequently asked ADHD Counselling and Coaching questions:
The exact causes of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are not fully understood, but research suggests that several factors may play a role in its development. These include:
- Genetics: ADHD tends to run in families, which suggests that genes may play a role in its development. Studies have found that children with ADHD are more likely to have a parent or sibling with the condition.
- Brain development: Research suggests that certain areas of the brain may be smaller or function differently in people with ADHD. These areas include the prefrontal cortex, which is involved in attention and impulse control, and the basal ganglia, which is involved in movement.
- Environmental factors: Exposure to certain toxins during pregnancy, such as alcohol, nicotine, or lead, may increase the risk of ADHD. Premature birth, low birth weight, and brain injury are also associated with an increased risk of ADHD.
- Other disorders: Children with other disorders such as anxiety, depression, or learning disorders, may have a higher risk of developing ADHD.
It is important to note that ADHD is a complex disorder and the cause of ADHD may be different for every individual, and it is also likely a combination of multiple factors. Research is ongoing in this area and it is expected that new discoveries will help to better understand how ADHD develops.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a complex condition that likely arises from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Research suggests that genes play a role in the development of ADHD, as the condition tends to run in families. Children who have a parent or sibling with ADHD are more likely to develop the condition themselves.
However, it is not clear whether ADHD is solely caused by genetic factors or if there is also an environmental component. Exposure to certain toxins during pregnancy, such as alcohol, nicotine, or lead, may increase the risk of ADHD. Premature birth, low birth weight, and brain injury can also be associated with an increased risk of ADHD.
It is also worth noting that ADHD symptoms can present differently in different people, and the onset can be different too, some people may have symptoms from early childhood, while others may not develop symptoms until later in life.
In summary, while genetic factors may play a role in the development of ADHD, it is likely that a combination of genetic and environmental factors contribute to the condition.
There are several different therapy treatments that can be used to help individuals with ADHD, including:
Behavioural therapy: Behavioural therapy is a type of therapy that focuses on modifying behaviours that are associated with ADHD. Techniques such as positive reinforcement, token economies, and parent training can be used to teach children and adolescents new behaviours and improve their functioning at home, school, and other environments.
Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT): CBT is a type of talk therapy that can help individuals with ADHD to recognize and change negative patterns of thinking and behaviour. It can be used to help individuals improve their organizational skills, time-management, and problem-solving abilities.
Social skills training: Social skills training can be useful for individuals with ADHD who have difficulties with social interactions. This type of therapy can help to teach individuals the skills they need to interact effectively with others.
Parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT): PCIT is a type of therapy that can be used to help parents of children with ADHD to improve their parenting skills and the relationship with their child.
Parent Coaching: supporting parents to improve their parenting skills, deepen their understanding of ADHD and develop strategies that have proven success and help their child develop a stronger self esteem.
It’s important to note that the best therapy treatment for ADHD will depend on the individual’s specific needs and preferences, as well as the severity of their symptoms. A combination of therapy and medication may be the most effective approach.
Medications such as stimulants (e.g. Elvanse, Concerta) and non-stimulants (e.g. Strattera) have been found to be effective in reducing symptoms of ADHD in children, teens, and adults. These can only be prescribed by a clinician following formal diagnosis.
There are several organisations in the United Kingdom that provide information and support for people with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Some of the most reputable ones are:
- ADHD UK: a national charity that provides information, support, and advocacy for individuals with ADHD and their families. They also provide training for professionals and run support groups across the UK.
- ADDISS: the National Attention Deficit Disorder Information and Support Service, which provides information, advice, and support for people with ADHD and their families, as well as for professionals working with them.
- The National Autistic Society: also provide information and support for individuals with ADHD and their families, as well as training for professionals.
- The National Health Service (NHS) in UK: provides information on ADHD and its diagnosis, treatment and support options, as well as general information on mental health conditions. You can find more information on the NHS website or by speaking to your GP.
- The British Psychological Society: provides information and resources for professionals working with individuals with ADHD.
These organizations can provide information on the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of ADHD, as well as resources and support for individuals and families affected by the condition. They can also provide information on local support groups, counselling, and other forms of help.
ADHD is often treated with a combination of medication and therapy. Medication, such as stimulants, can help with attention and hyperactivity. Therapy can help a person learn skills to manage their symptoms and improve their relationships and overall well-being.
A session is 60 minutes
£105 per session*.
If a Block of 6 sessions or more are booked 10% reduction is given.
Our ADHD specialist is Vanessa Boudier
Frequently asked Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) questions:
Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) works by using a combination of techniques and strategies to help individuals understand and change their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
NLP is a flexible tool and practitioners use different techniques depending on the specific goal and context of each person. NLP practitioners work to help individuals understand their own thought patterns and beliefs, and create a new perspective that will allow them to reach their goals and improve their overall well-being.
Modelling: NLP practitioners study the behaviour and language patterns of successful people in order to understand how they think and communicate. They then use this knowledge to help others achieve similar success.
Reframing: NLP practitioners use reframing techniques to help individuals change the way they think about a situation. By changing their perspective, individuals can change their emotional response to a situation and, in turn, change their behaviour.
Rapport Building: NLP practitioners use techniques such as mirroring and matching to establish a connection with others. This helps individuals build trust and communicate more effectively.
Visualization: NLP practitioners use visualization techniques to help individuals create mental images of their desired outcome. This helps individuals stay motivated and focused on achieving their goals.
Anchoring: NLP practitioners use anchoring techniques to help individuals create a positive association with a specific word, gesture, or object. This can be used to help individuals overcome negative emotions or behaviours.
Sub modalities: NLP practitioners use the concept of sub modalities, which are the different ways that people experience and process thoughts, feelings, and memories. By changing the sub modalities, NLP practitioners can help individuals change their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours.
Each session is 60 minutes
From £80 per session*.
*Block booking of 6+ sessions qualifies for 5% reduction.
Nicole Biggs
Vanessa Boudier
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