What can I expect from counselling?

Counselling offers a space where you can talk openly and be heard without judgement. We will work at your pace, exploring what feels important to you and making sense of your thoughts, feelings, and experiences together.
 

Do I need to know what I want to talk about?

Not at all. Many people come to therapy unsure of where to begin. We can take the time to gently explore what’s going on for you and find a starting point together.
 

What happens when I get in touch?

Once you reach out, I will respond to arrange a free 15–20 minute telephone conversation. This gives us the chance to talk through what’s bringing you to therapy, ask any questions, and begin to see whether working together feels like the right fit.
 

Is the first session an assessment?

The first session is an opportunity to get to know each other and begin to understand what has brought you to therapy. We may go through some initial information, but this is done in a gentle and collaborative way, rather than feeling like a formal assessment.
 

How long are sessions and how often will we meet?

Sessions are typically around 50 minutes. Most people attend weekly, especially at the beginning, but this can be discussed and reviewed depending on your needs.
 

Do you offer online and face-to-face counselling?

Yes, I offer both face-to-face counselling in Ipswich and online therapy across the UK. This allows you to choose the option that feels most comfortable and accessible for you.

Where is face-to-face counselling based?

Face-to-face counselling sessions take place in central Ipswich at Suffolk Yoga, a calm and welcoming wellbeing space near the university.

The location is easily accessible, with nearby car parks and good transport links, including Ipswich train station within walking distance. The building offers a peaceful environment for therapy, with a private counselling room on the second floor and access to a ground floor room with disabled access at certain times.

I aim to make sessions as accessible and comfortable as possible and can discuss any specific needs with you when arranging appointments.
 

Is everything I say confidential?

Yes, everything you share is treated confidentially. The only exceptions are if there is a risk of serious harm to yourself or others, safeguarding concerns, or a legal obligation to share information. I will always aim to discuss this with you where possible.
 

What is integrative counselling?

Integrative counselling means I draw from a range of therapeutic approaches rather than using one single method. This allows therapy to be shaped around you as an individual, your experiences, and what feels most helpful.
 

What if I feel nervous about starting therapy?

It’s completely natural to feel nervous. Reaching out for support can feel like a big step. We can go at a pace that feels comfortable for you, and there is no expectation to share anything before you feel ready.
 

Do you have experience with trauma or complex backgrounds?

Yes, I have experience working with clients who have experienced trauma, difficult relationships, or complex life experiences. Therapy provides a space to explore these safely and at your own pace, with care and sensitivity.
 

Do you work with neurodivergent clients?

Yes, I have experience working with neurodivergent clients, including those with ADHD or autism, as well as parents and family members. I aim to work in a way that feels accessible, flexible, and respectful of individual needs.
 

What if I don’t feel like therapy is working?

It’s important that therapy feels helpful for you. If something doesn’t feel right, we can talk about it openly and adjust our approach. You are always in control of whether you continue.
 

If my situation is quite complex, can therapy still help?
Many people come to therapy with a mix of different experiences and feelings that can feel difficult to untangle. We can take the time to gently work through things together, without needing to have everything clearly defined from the start.

Are there any areas in particular you are passionate about supporting?
I have a particular interest in supporting women’s health and wellbeing, including those who may be navigating the impact of long-term health conditions or complex medical experiences.

I also have experience working with individuals affected by domestic abuse and difficult or controlling relationships, offering a space that feels safe, respectful, and at your pace.

Alongside this, I have supported clients living with ongoing health conditions, including those who have experienced complications from medical procedures. I understand how these experiences can affect not only physical health, but emotional wellbeing, identity, and relationships.

While these are areas I feel particularly passionate about, I welcome anyone who feels that counselling may be helpful for them.