What to expect
Taking the first step towards counselling can feel daunting — and that is completely understandable. Many people feel uncertain about what to expect, or worry they might not know what to say. I want to reassure you that there is no pressure, no right or wrong way to begin, and that everything is entirely at your pace.
The First Session
We begin with an initial assessment — a relaxed conversation where you can tell me a little about yourself and what has brought you to counselling. This is also your opportunity to ask me anything you like and to get a sense of whether you feel comfortable working with me. There is absolutely no obligation to continue.
If you decide you would like to go ahead, we will arrange to meet weekly for 50-minute sessions, either in person at my consulting room in Kings Langley or online via Zoom, WhatsApp or phone.
How Counselling Works
I am trained as a psychodynamic counsellor. In simple terms, this means I work with you to gently explore how your past experiences and relationships may be influencing how you feel and behave today — often in ways we are not consciously aware of. By bringing these patterns to light, we can begin to understand them and, over time, change them.
Counselling is not about being told what to do or given advice. It is a collaborative process — I am here to listen, reflect and support and work with you as you find your own way forward.
What I Can Help With
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Anxiety and panic
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Depression and low mood
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Bereavement and grief
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Trauma and difficult past experiences
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Low self-esteem and self-confidence
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Relationship difficulties
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Stress — including workplace stress and burnout
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Feeling stuck, trapped or unable to move forward
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Self-harm
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Life transitions and change
Frequently Asked Questions
Is counselling right for me?
Counselling can be helpful for anyone who is struggling — whether you have been given a diagnosis, are going through a difficult time, or simply feel that something is not quite right and you are not sure why. You do not need to be in crisis to benefit from counselling. Many people find it enormously helpful simply to have a dedicated, confidential space to talk.
What if I don't know what to say?
This is one of the most common concerns — and you are not alone in thinking this. There is no set way, and no expectations. You might start by telling me a little about what is going on for you right now, or what has made you consider counselling. I will gently help guide our conversations from there. Some sessions may feel really full; others are quieter. Both are completely fine.
How many sessions will I need?
This varies from person to person and depends on what you are working through. Some people find that a focused period of six to twelve sessions is enough; others prefer to work on a longer-term basis. We will talk about this together in our early sessions and review it as we go. There is no pressure to commit to a fixed number at the outset. We will always work towards an ending.
Is everything I say kept confidential?
Yes. Confidentiality is fundamental to counselling. Everything you share with me stays between us. The only exceptions — which I will always explain clearly at the start — are the rare situations where I have serious concerns about your safety or the safety of someone else, as required by my professional and legal obligations. I work within the BACP's ethical framework and take my duty of confidentiality very seriously.
Is everything I say kept confidential?
Yes. Confidentiality is fundamental to counselling. Everything you share with me stays between us. The only exceptions — which I will always explain clearly at the start — are the rare situations where I have serious concerns about your safety or the safety of someone else, as required by my professional and legal obligations. I work within the BACP's ethical framework and take my duty of confidentiality very seriously.
What is the difference between psychodynamic counselling and CBT?
CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) tends to focus on identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns in the present. Psychodynamic counselling takes a broader and often deeper look — exploring how your history, relationships and unconscious patterns may be shaping how you feel today. Both approaches are well-evidenced and valuable; different people respond better to different styles. If you are unsure which is right for you, I am very happy to talk it through.
Do you offer online sessions?
Yes. I offer sessions via Zoom, WhatsApp video or phone. Online counselling is just as effective as face-to-face for most people, and has the added advantage of being accessible from wherever you are. All you need is a private space and a device that supports a video or phone call.
Still have a question?
Please feel free to get in touch — I am always happy to have an initial conversation before you decide whether to go ahead.