Havers Counselling
mental Health and counselling support in Ascot, Binfield, warfield and the surrounding Berkshire area
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything that is said within the counselling room is private - this is one of the main ways counselling and therapy differ from talking to a friend or relative. Once you are comfortable with the format of weekly sessions and the safe space they provide, you will find that the freedom to speak in confidence is of great value. Note that in situations where you may be at risk to yourself or others, the law requires that I notify an authority; in these cases, I may not be able to keep total confidentiality. Breaking confidentiality is very rare and will only happen after you have been informed.
Usually, I am asked this question by people who are nervous about entering into counselling, or when they are looking for support with coming to see a therapist. This anxiety is understandable; however, a key aspect of therapy is that you can explore any issues that are important to you. Having someone else in the room, who may be connected to those issues, can make it more difficult to talk freely. So, for this reason I do not see clients accompanied by friends or family.
How long a period of counselling lasts will vary from person to person and depends on the depth of the issues they are facing, and some problems may require more of an open-ended approach. During contracting, we will collaborate on the number of initial sessions, and review our progress throughout. Providing we both agree that further therapy will be of benefit to you, sessions can continue.
My aim is to offer a first appointment - known as an initial assessment - within 1-2 weeks. During this 50 minute assessment, we will discuss your therapeutic needs going forward, and arrange a day for counselling that is convenient for you. Your sessions will take place on the same day and time each week. How quickly these sessions can begin will be subject to availability and you are welcome to join the waiting list if required.