“You don’t have to have it all figured out.”

Frequently asked questions about counselling

Do you offer face-to-face counselling in Preston?

Yes. One-to-one sessions start online for the first two. After that, if we both feel comfortable and you’d prefer to meet in person, we can meet face to face in Preston. Otherwise we carry on online, wherever you are in the UK. Beyond the Jab runs online on Zoom.

Do you offer counselling in Ormskirk?

Yes, online. If you’re in Ormskirk or anywhere in West Lancashire, our sessions are online, so you can join from wherever feels private and comfortable. Face-to-face sessions are in Preston only.

What can you help with?

In one-to-one counselling I work with anxiety and health anxiety, stress, low mood, self-esteem, big life changes, trauma, addiction and substance use, relationships, family difficulties, and emotional eating and your relationship with food. If what you’re going through isn’t listed, get in touch and I’ll be honest about whether I’m the right person.

How much does counselling cost?

One-to-one counselling is £65 for a 60-minute session, and the first 15-minute consultation is free. Beyond the Jab is £96 for the groups (or 2 payments of £48), or £336 with four one-to-ones (or 2 payments of £168).

How long is a session?

One-to-one sessions are 60 minutes. Beyond the Jab groups are 90 minutes.

Do you offer a free consultation?

Yes. Before we book anything, we have a free 15-minute consultation. It’s a chance to tell me a little about what’s going on, ask me anything, and see if we’re a good fit. No pressure, and no obligation.

Is what I say confidential?

Yes, within the usual limits of confidentiality, which I’ll explain before we start. For example, I may need to share information if I’m worried about your safety or someone else’s.

Do you give medical, medication or diet advice?

No. Please speak to your GP, prescriber or pharmacist about medication and your physical health, and a registered dietitian about what you eat.

How do I pay?

By bank transfer. Card payments are coming soon. For Beyond the Jab, payment is due after your suitability call, and you can pay in two instalments.

What if I need to cancel a one-to-one session?

Life happens, and I understand that. Just give me at least 48 hours’ notice and there’s no charge. Sessions cancelled with less than 48 hours’ notice are charged in full, because that time was kept just for you.

What if I need to cancel my place on Beyond the Jab?

If you cancel before the group starts, you’ll get 80% of your fee back. The group needs at least 8 people to run, and if it doesn’t reach 8, everyone gets a full refund. If you stop partway through, I’ll refund 80% of the value of the sessions you haven’t used: £9.60 for each group week and £48 for each one-to-one (worth £12 and £60). Sessions you miss count as used. If you’re paying in two instalments and stop before the second is due, I’ll only ask for it if the sessions you’ve had are worth more than you’ve already paid. Refunds are always worked out on what you’ve actually paid.

Do you offer free counselling?

No, I don’t offer free counselling, but I don’t want cost to stop you reaching out. The first 15-minute consultation is always free, and after that sessions are £65, with savings on blocks of 8, 10 or 12. If you’re on a low income, I’m happy to talk about a sliding-scale fee. I’ll just need to see evidence of your income, for example a Universal Credit statement. If cost is a barrier right now, your GP can also tell you about free NHS talking therapies in your area.

Is this a crisis service?

No. If you need help urgently, call NHS 111 or Samaritans free on 116 123, day or night. In an emergency, call 999.