How long is each appointment?
Appointments are usually 50 minutes (but some counsellors may offer slightly different timings) and usually weekly, but different intervals may be negotiated. Balance the commitment that is sensible for your life circumstances against being able to make and maintain progress – you will make more progress if you attend regularly.
How many sessions will I need?
The average number of sessions people attend for is between 5 and 8. Some people only come for one or two and others may continue for a year or several years. It is difficult to predict with certainty the number of sessions you will need. This is why regular reviews are helpful so you consider what you are committing yourself to.
Your counsellor may suggest a specific number of sessions to begin, with a review to see how it is going and whether more sessions would be useful.
You are free to end counselling at any time. It is generally helpful to have an ending session, particularly if you have worked together for a while.
How do I pay for the sessions?
You are expected to pay electronically or by cash or cheque made payable to the counsellor. Some expect you to pay for a session in advance. Missed appointments will incur a cancellation fee. This will be a minimum of £10 and up to the full fee—please ask your therapist for details.
Will everything I tell my counsellor be confidential?
All our counsellors abide by professional codes of ethics and practice. What you talk about with your counsellor is private and confidential with some exceptions:
- If you tell your counsellor anything that leads them to believe you or another person (especially a child) are at risk of harm, they may need to divulge this information. A counsellor would usually discuss this with you first and support you to take appropriate action.
- Your counsellor would discuss with their supervisor a decision to disclose information to relevant authorities to ensure they are acting in the best interests of the most vulnerable parties.
- Discussion in clinical supervision is a normal part of a reputable counsellor’s work in line with professional guidelines. This will always be done with care to protect your identity.
Am I allowed to smoke during a session?
Cornerstone (including Breathe) is a smoke-free zone. If you cannot manage a session without a cigarette, you might agree a ‘time-out’ with your counsellor. However it is worth thinking about and discussing the timing of ‘time-out’ – is there something you are finding hard to face?
How to make an appointment
Complete our self-referral form giving a brief description of the issues you would like to work on and your availability. We’ll then be in touch with our recommended therapist options and appointment availability.