FAQs

Here are answers to the most common questions

1. What does Integrative Counselling mean?

Integrative counselling aims to build a trusting and non-judgmental relationship that helps to develop self-awareness. My integrative counselling style uses techniques and tools from a range of counselling approaches in an attempt to tailor an individual approach for you.

2. What can I expect from an initial counselling session?

The initial counselling session will provide a space for us to meet in person for the first time. You will see where I work, my room, its layout, its contents, even its feel. The initial counselling session will provide an opportunity for you to consider the logistics of my location, timings of your journey even the small things like parking, that enable you to arrive smoothly to future sessions. One element of the initial counselling session that I cannot outline is its content; this is unknown, it is unique and led by you, but it will be the start, your start, our start. As to not eat into our time, at the end of the session you will be given an Elephant Counselling contract and a copy of the Elephant Counselling Data Protection Policy to take away and read. These documents will be need to be signed and returned at the start of your next full session if you decide to continue.

3. Cancellation policy

I require at least 24 hours notice if a session is to be cancelled or amended. Any cancellations or amendments made within the 24 hour window will be charged at the full session rate. Despite a sympathetic understanding of how ‘life can get in the way’ when it comes to schedules and diary commitments, It is not possible for me to subsidize the costs of non attendees or last minute cancelations.

4. How do I pay?

• Cash – At the start of the session
• Card – At the start of the session
• Bank transfer – 24 hours before the start of the session

5. Are sessions confidential?

Yes, everything discussed in our sessions is strictly confidential. As a BACP registered Counsellor I am required to work strictly within the framework set out by the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. Exceptions to which information would be required to be shared include:

• Where a client risks harm to themselves and / or others
• Where I am required to by a court of law
• To prevent or help in the detection of serious crime

6. I am fully qualified and insured.

• I have a professional affiliation to the British Association For Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). It is my professional responsibility to adhere to the Ethical Framework that outlines the professional standards that contribute to outstanding counselling practice.
• I have full insurance cover provided by Holistic Insurance.
• I hold an up to date DBS Certificate (Disclosure and Barring Service). This is an essential document enabling me to work with children and young people in a counselling setting.