Frequently Asked Questions

You don’t need a polished story or a clear goal.
We’ll talk about what’s brought you here, what you’re hoping for, and what you need to feel safe and supported.

It’s a gentle settling in, connecting, and discussing how we will work together, at your pace.

Not at all.
Many people arrive saying, “I don’t even know where to start.”
That’s completely normal, and there’s no right or wrong starting point.
We’ll figure it out together.

In counselling language, I take a “person-centred, integrative approach”. That just means I draw from a toolkit of well-established, evidence-based modalities and strategies to fit what you need.  I’ve explained what these are on the Services page.

The main thing to know is you don’t need to know, or to pick. We’ll work out together where you want to get to, and what will help to get you there.

It depends on you — your story, your goals, your pace, no pressure.

Some people come with a specific objective, and only need 1 or 2 sessions to make a plan and get started.

Others know that something needs to change, and over 5 or 6 sessions we explore options and choices for what “different and better” could look like, ways to get there, and then prepare plans and supports needed during and afterwards.

Others value having a reflective space to process past experiences, re-evaluate the identity and values they have been living with, and redefine who they want to be in the future that lies ahead of them.

Longer-term “companion” counselling might suit you if you enjoy reflective, insight-oriented conversations, you want to understand yourself more deeply, and want a space that isn’t rushed. Over time, we explore the stories, patterns, values, and relationships shaping your life.

I love this work, and how it unfolds gently, with space for depth, nuance, and growth.

work with young people and adults experiencing life challenges.

They are often navigating identity, belonging, meaning, transitions, and the complexities of being human. Many are thoughtful, sensitive, or quietly carrying more than they show.

People I work with often appreciate having a compassionate space where they can feel heard and understood as themselves, and where they can explore identity, belonging and meaning without judgement. Often they are LGBTIQA+, neurodiverse, or coming from restrictive or controlling environments.

I also work with partners, family and friends to help them understand what is going on for their loved ones, how to support them, and how to look after themselves when they are giving a lot.

I love connecting with people who are curious to understand themselves more deeply, and find ways to feel more alive, because I get to support them to feel authentic and find meaning and hopefulness about life.

But you don’t need to fit into any particular category. You are you; just bring yourself.

No – we can do whatever helps you do you.

If you feel more comfortable going for a walk, throwing a ball around or doing something active while we chat, I’m here for that.

Also, if you like the privacy of a counselling room but not the sitting still bit, feel free to fidget, draw, lie on the floor or try out the different chairs.

Yes.
Online sessions are still warm, grounded, and human — minus the travel time and the need to wear pants.

Online is also best if you are feeling unwell but still wanting to chat.

That’s okay.

Counselling is a really personal thing.
Finding the right counsellor is important.
If after a session or two it doesn’t feel right, I’ll support you in finding someone who might be a better match.

Take the time to find the right person.
No awkwardness, no hard feelings.

Yes.

Please do. When you bring your whole self, we get the greatest awareness of what’s going on, and the best understanding of what might help.
You don’t need to be articulate, tidy, or emotionally organised.
You can show up confused, overwhelmed, hopeful, exhausted, curious, or quietly falling apart.
You’re welcome exactly as you are.

If you can’t make it to a session, please let me know as soon as possible.

There’s no charge if you cancel with at least 48 hours notice. Otherwise it is 50% for 1-2 days notice, and full fee for less than 24 hours.

Please don’t come if you feel unwell or have any symptoms that might be catching or lingering. That helps us keep the counselling spaces clean and healthy. And if I catch something, I can’t see other clients.

If it’s short notice, I’m happy to swap to an online session if we’re due to meet in person; or you can send your partner, BFF or other special person and we can use the session to talk about how they can support you.

Lots of people feel uncertain about reaching out — especially if they’ve had difficult experiences in the past or aren’t used to talking about themselves.

It’s okay to be unsure.
It’s okay to take your time.
It’s okay to ask questions – you can start now by going to the Contact page and booking a FREE 15 minute consultation.

Asking questions helps me too – I get to understand how you are experiencing the process, and to keep us focussed on what is important and valuable for you.

You’re welcome here exactly as you are.