Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the right counsellor?

When searching for a counsellor, you’ll quickly find a wide range of professionals offering different therapy styles. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Professional Registration – Look for a counsellor who is a registered member of a professional body such as the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). The BACP ensures its members meet high professional standards, adhere to ethical guidelines, and maintain their skills through continuing professional development (CPD) and clinical supervision.

• Connection & Comfort – The therapeutic relationship is crucial. Ask yourself:

  • Do I feel comfortable with this counsellor?

  • Do they have my best interests at heart?

  • Do they promote my self-belief and empower me?

  • Do they work with integrity?

If you can answer YES, trust your instincts. If, after a few sessions, it doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to find someone new—your time and investment in therapy should feel worthwhile.

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How often do I attend?

I offer weekly counselling sessions, seeing this as an investment in your mental well-being. Just like committing to physical health through a gym membership, regular sessions provide a dedicated space for you to build awareness, gain understanding, and focus on what you want to achieve.

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What are your fees?

I offer face-to-face, telephone, and online sessions:

• FREE – Initial telephone consultation

• £40.00 – Initial assessment session

• £60.00 – Per 50-minute session

• £50.00 – Concessionary rate for students (limited availability)

Discounts available for block bookings.

Locations:

• In-person sessions available in East Bristol (BS15) and Central Bristol (BS6)

• Online and telephone sessions available nationwide

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How many sessions do I need?

This depends entirely on your needs. Everyone is different, and their goals for counselling will vary.

• Short-term counselling typically lasts 6 to 12 sessions

• Longer-term counselling is open-ended and reviewed regularly

We’ll work together to determine what feels right for you.

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How do I book?

You can reach me in the following ways:

📞 Call me: 07508 87278 – Please leave a message with some details, and I will aim to respond within 24-48 hours (Monday–Thursday) to arrange a time to speak.

📱 Text me: 07508 87278 – If calling feels daunting, send a text, and I’ll respond as soon as possible to arrange a call or appointment.

📧 Email me: – No need for a long message, just a brief outline of what support you’re looking for.

⏳ Availability:

• Monday–Thursday: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM

• Closed on Fridays, weekends, and bank holidays (messages received during these times will be responded  the next working day).​

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What if I need to cancel?

I understand that life can be unpredictable. However, as I reserve a dedicated space for you, I kindly ask for as much notice as possible if you need to cancel.

• Cancellations within 48–24 hours – 50% charge of the full session fee

• Cancellations within 24 hours or non-attendance – 100% charge, payable before the next session 

 

What happens with my personal information?

Your confidentiality is extremely important to me. I will never share information about you, your reasons for seeking counselling, or our discussions with anyone—except in rare circumstances where:

• I have serious concerns about your welfare

• I am legally required to disclose information

We will discuss confidentiality in detail during your initial appointment to ensure clarity.

I am a registered Data Controller with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) and comply with General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) 2018. You can find my privacy statement at the bottom of the page.

If you have any questions about GDPR, feel free to ask—I’ll be happy to clarify.

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Concerns About Counselling?

If you ever have concerns about our work together or any BACP-registered counsellor, and you don’t feel comfortable raising them directly, you can contact the BACP’s "Ask Kathleen" service. For more information on how the BACP manages professional conduct c

concerns, visit the BACP website.