FAQs

Face-to-face sessions in Wantage, Faringdon & South West Oxfordshire and online sessions in the UK

Current availability

 I am sorry but I do not currently have any availability for new clients.

Can I have counselling with you?

  I work with individuals - adults over 18 years (and occasionally 16-17 year olds on a case by case basis). There are examples of issues I am able to support you with in the Why come to counselling? section. You are welcome to contact me to arrange an initial call to understand if I am the right counsellor for you and your needs, or if it is likely that you would be better supported by a different service or therapist.

What happens on the initial call?

  We will briefly explore what you need and expect from counselling, and create a shared understanding of how we will work together if you choose to proceed. We will then introduce the counselling agreement to support development of our counselling work.

How often are sessions?

 I offer weekly 50 minute sessions at the same time on the same weekday. These may be face-to-face or online. I do not offer fortnightly sessions as I find this limits the momentum of the counselling work.

What is the Counselling Agreement?

  This contract captures our agreement on our work together, including session times and number; fees and cancellation policy; confidentiality; my Ethical Frameworks; contact outside of sessions etc.

What happens in the first session?

  We will complete the counselling agreement and begin our therapeutic work together with a focus on your goals and agenda.

How many sessions can I expect?

  We will agree on the number of sessions at the start of therapy but this can be reviewed. We can arrange a fixed number of sessions or work on an ongoing basis. 

Do we review how therapy is going?

  We will agree to review our work together at regular intervals, dependent on your needs, to assess the work and any evolving goals and direction.

How much does it cost and how do I pay?

  My standard rates are 

  • Free initial call (20mins)
  • £55 for 50 minute sessions  

  Reduced fees may be agreed for sessions booked and pre-paid monthly in advance, and for some online sessions.

  Fees are payable by bank transfer 48hours in advance of sessions, in line with the 48hour cancellation policy. Arrangements for cash payments may be agreed. A deposit of £10 is payable in advance on confirmation of our first session, for clients who have face-to-face sessions. This is to cover the room hire charge for any late cancellations and will be refunded at the end of therapy if unused.

 I have no remaining availability for sessions at concessionary rates at this time.

There is a 'Fees, cancellation, breaks, endings and withdrawal of service' policy in place.

How confidential and private is therapy?

  All client and session information is kept confidential in accordance with the NCS and BACP Ethical Frameworks. Personal information is kept securely and protected under the Data Protection Act 1998 and GDPR 2018. I am registered with the Information Commissioner's Office. There are 'Privacy & Confidentiality' and 'Safeguarding' policies in place.

What additional support is available to me?

  Please see the separate section below

Additional links and support

Emergency or crisis: free listening services

General information and support

  • Oxfordshire Mind: Promotes the views and needs of people with mental health problems. Offers advice and support.

 

 

Phone: 07523 796173 

Email: heather.counselling21@gmail.com

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