FAQ

Thank you for considering therapy for yourself or the young person. I understand that you may have some questions, and i am here to provide additional information. If you need further clarification, please don't hesitate to reach out for a chat. 

At what age do you work with young people?

I work with young people aged 11+ and older, understanding that this can be a sensitive and transitional period in their lives.

Can a client under 18 give consent to participate in therapy?

When a client is under 16, I prioritise having a conversation to ensure they have the capacity to understand and consent to the therapy process. It is essential they fully comprehend what they are agreeing to and what will happen during therapy.

How are parents/ carers be involved in the therapy process?

In many cases, parents/ carers or professionals who initially reach out provide valuable information about the client. For clients under 18 parents will be involved in the initial phase of therapy, where we agree upon the contract.  During 50-minute session, parents will join the client to review the contract. An opportunity to ask any questions they may have. After this session, their formal involvement ends, and the therapeutic relationship is between me and the client. Without the parent’s role in the therapeutic process, apart from supporting the client in attending the sessions, I am here to address any concerns or questions they may have. 

Is the therapy work confidential?

Confidentiality is a crucial aspect of therapy, but there are some exceptions. I maintain strict confidentiality and do not share any details with third parties. However, I engage in supervision, which involves reflecting on the work without revealing specific client information. Additionally, I have a legal and ethical obligation to contact appropriate authorities if a client discloses involvement in certain criminal activities, danger to a child or vulnerable adult, or plans to harm themselves or others. In cases of direct suicide attempts, parents and the clients and General practitioner will always be informed. I will not inform schools or GPs about the therapeutic relationship unless it is deemed safe and necessary, and I will discuss this with the client before acting. 

Who is responsible for the client attending sessions and making payments?

The client themselves is responsible for booking, attending, and paying for their therapy sessions. Taking ownership of is an essential part of their commitment to their own well-being and personal growth. They may require assistance from parents or carers, such as transportation or financial support, the client will make the necessary arrangements and call regarding their appointments accordingly. If a session needs to be cancelled or rescheduled, I expect direct communication from the client, as this responsibility lies with them rather than their parents. During our initial meeting, we can discuss these expectations in detail and explore ways to facilitate and support communication around these matters. 

How long does therapy typically last?

I can offer open-ended therapy, meaning the therapeutic relationship is determined by each other’s mutual agreement. It can be challenging to predict how long therapy will take at the outset. However, we will regularly check in with you to ensure the work we are doing fulfils one’s own with needs. 

What approach do to therapy do you employ?

As a Person-Centred Counsellor, I work in a collaborative way building a therapeutic relationship with my client. I prioritise the client’s choices and the pace at which they feel comfortable progressing at rather than providing my own solutions, I do not rescue or fix.  I trust in the client’s capacity to change and perceive themselves differently when they are ready.  

Do you incorporate creative methods into therapy sessions?

I primarily practise traditional talking and listening therapy. I create a safe space where clients can express themselves verbally. However, if the client expresses a preference for incorporating creative methods into our work together, we explore this, it can be from fidget gadgets sand tray, doodle books or memory boxes.   If I sense there is specialist work required, as such I will be sign posting and validated the reasoning for this. 

Can parents/ carers wait during therapy sessions?

To make most of the session time and encourage parents or carers to utilise that period to explore the nearby area. They can then return to collect the young person.   

Can the client reach out between sessions if they require help?

Contacting me outside of schedule sessions is limited to administrative matters such as cancelling or rescheduling appointments. I do not respond to any other forms of contact outside of agreed meeting times. This approach is based on the understanding therapy is about developing in self-awareness. It is important for clients to explore ways of being themselves through our therapeutic relationship, practise self-care and engage in personal reflection, if a client requires a different approach, it may indicate that I may not be the right therapist for them. 

Can a young person work with you without their parents/ carers knowing?

No, if the client is under 18, I require them to inform their parents/ carers that we are working together. Although therapy is confidential, it is not meant to be a secret. Excepting the need for therapy is an important step in the young person’s journey and it is vital for those responsible for their well-being to be aware of the process. The client is not obligated to share everything discussed in therapy with their parents or carers, but confidentiality does not restrict them from doing so. Ultimately, the choice regarding what to share with their parents or carers is up to the young person. 

Do you provide support for parent/ carers of your clients?

No, apart from the initial inquiries and collaborative contract with the client, I do not have direct contact with parents or carers of my clients. My focus is primarily on working with the individual client, and do not provide family or group therapy. However, I strongly encourage parents and carers to seek support for themselves to help them manage their own responses to the situation. Resources as such can be found on the BACP website.   There you can find a suitable qualified and accredited therapist to provide the support you may need.