FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS What problems do you deal with? All the therapists listed here have been trained to help you work through all types of emotional difficulty. If any of us feel that a particular problem is outside our expertise we will tell you and help you find someone more suitable. For example, for debt counselling we would refer you to the Citizens Advice Bureau.
When I look at other people I think they have more problems than me. How do I know if my problem is big enough to come and see a counsellor?If it is bothering you it is worth talking about. Who is running a league table anyway?
I've been to counselling before and I didn't get on with the counsellor. Was that my fault and is it worth trying again?To talk about intimate details of your life you need a good atmosphere. If you don't feel comfortable with the counsellor it is going to be difficult to really confide in him or her. Finding someone you gel with is of paramount importance so it is worth shopping around.
How long would I have to come for? Each session usually lasts for 50 minutes and takes place once a week. With EMDR it might be more advantageous to book a double session and meet less frequently. If you want to set a limit on the number of sessions you receive, you can say so. Otherwise it is for you and the therapist to agree as you go along.
I have a very busy life. Will I have to wait around like I do at the doctor's surgery? No. We all make a point of starting and ending our sessions at the agreed time. None of us has waiting rooms so if you arrive early, we would ask you to wait outside until your appointment time. To protect your anonimity it is also better if you don't bump into another client, so we leave gaps between appointments to make sure this doesn't happen.
I don't want anyone else to know what I've talked to you about. Can you guarantee this? Confidentiality is very important to us as therapists. We know that trust is essential and trust is difficult if you are wondering who else will know. There are 2 areas which fall outside the confidentiality agreement and these are: intention to harm other people and intention to harm yourself. There may be occasions when we feel that it would be useful to consult with your doctor or psychiatrist but we would usually get your permission before doing this.
