Frequently Asked Questions

Thinking about counselling? Start here…

I understand that reaching out for counselling can feel like a big step, and you may have questions before getting started. This page is here to help.

Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions people have about the counselling process, what to expect in sessions, and more.

If your question isn’t covered here, please don’t hesitate to get in touch – I’m always happy to help.

How do I know if I need counselling?

Counselling can support you in gaining clarity, breaking old patterns, exploring personal challenges, or beginning a journey of self-development.
You may be in a crisis or struggling with thoughts and feelings you haven’t shared with anyone else. Or perhaps others—such as friends, family, or colleagues—have encouraged you to seek support.
Ultimately, the decision to begin counselling needs to come from you. Feeling empowered and ready to engage in the process is key to making meaningful progress.

What issues can counselling help with?

People seek counselling for many reasons. Some just want a safe, non-judgmental space to talk and feel truly heard. Others are working through specific challenges, such as:
  • Grief, loss, and bereavement
  • Depression (including low mood, social withdrawal, or suicidal thoughts)
  • Anxiety (including general anxiety, phobias, or panic attacks)
  • Workplace stress and work-life balance issues
  • Relationship problems (breakups, affairs, loneliness, divorce, jealousy, or marital conflict)
  • Low self-esteem and lack of confidence
  • Sexual issues
  • Trauma
  • Addiction and substance misuse
  • Abuse (physical, emotional, verbal, or sexual)

Will my counselling sessions be confidential?

Yes. Everything you share in counselling is treated with confidentiality.
However, there are rare exceptions—for example, if there is a risk of harm to yourself or others. If this occurs, I will always aim to discuss it with you before taking any action.
We’ll review a counselling contract in our first session. This outlines the process, ethical guidelines, confidentiality policy, and how I work as a therapist.

Can I have more than one session per week?

Counselling works best when you have time to reflect between sessions. For this reason, I typically recommend one session per week. This allows therapeutic insights to settle and real-life changes to take root.

How many counselling sessions will I need?

The number of sessions depends on your personal needs and circumstances.
Many people start with 6 to 10 sessions and then review their progress. I offer flexibility around session length and frequency and will work with you to find a rhythm that feels right.

How do I know which counsellor is right for me?

Therapy is most effective when you feel safe, understood, and able to trust your counsellor.
In our first session, we’ll explore whether we’re a good fit for working together. Building trust and rapport is a vital part of the process, and your comfort is always a priority.

What happens in a counselling session?

There is no “typical” session—each one is unique to you.
We’ll start wherever you feel comfortable. You can bring anything to the space, whether it’s day-to-day struggles, thoughts, emotions, past experiences, dreams, or future goals.
There’s no right or wrong way to do counselling. It’s a collaborative process we navigate together, at your pace and in your own time.

Sessions

Please call 07852 660944 to arrange your session or contact me at stephanie@sfs-counselling.co.uk

I offer day time and evening sessions Monday to Friday and Saturday mornings.

The session will last 60 minutes. I offer both short-term and long-term therapy and during the initial free appointment we can discuss your requirements for future sessions.

Fees are £55 for individuals and £65 for couples.