FAQs
What is a session?
Whether you are new to counselling or would like to return after time away from it, knowing a a bit about what to expect can help with any anxieties you may have.
Counselling begins with an initial consultation. This first consultation will be a chance for us to meet, get to know each other more, and discuss what has brought you to counselling. It is also a chance for you to ask any questions which you might have and for you to see what you can expect from counselling. It is also an opportunity to see if we would work well together, and I would invite you to think about this over our first meetings, as would I. These initial consultations last for 50 minutes. It is commitment free.
The way I work is typically more long-term and open-ended but is regularly reviewed by us to make sure it is still the best option for you. You are always free to end counselling when you wish but I suggest a minimum of six sessions and talking to me about any difficulties you are experiencing which might be leading you to seek to end the counselling.
How often do we meet and how much does it cost?
Sessions are on an individual basis and are weekly, at a regular time as this helps build trust, each week, lasting for 50 minutes.
Where am I based?
My counselling practice is based in central London at London Bridge and central Tunbridge Wells. Both are easily accessible by public transport. If you are driving to Tunbridge Wells, there is a choice of pay and display on street parking and multi-storey carparks nearby.
The buildings in both locations are discreet with buzzer entry.
I also have an online and telephone practice.
How do I choose the right counsellor for me?
Choosing a counsellor can feel a little difficult at times. However, there are a few key things to consider which will help you get the best counsellor for you.
Whoever you choose to work with, the relationship between client and counsellor is at the core of successful counselling. Developing trust and respect in a non-judgemental environment will form the basis of your work together. Look for professionals who offer initial consultations where you have the opportunity to get to know each other.
It is also important that your counsellor is suitably qualified and experienced. It is important to look for counsellors who are registered members of the BACP (British Association of Counselling Practitioners) or a member of UKCP (United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapists).
As Professional Bodies, BACP and UKCP ensure that their members meet the necessary professional standards, ethics and qualifications required to practise as well as ensuring that their members keep their skills up to date through continuing professional development (CPD). In turn, BACP is registered with the Professional Standards Authority (PSA).
How long is a consultation or session?
Generally counsellors use a ‘Counselling Hour’ which is 50 minutes long.
How to book an initial consultation?
Email me at emiliayaucounselling@gmail.com, telephone me on 07307 880349 or email me via the BACP Directory where I am listed to get in touch and we can discuss availability for an initial consultation.
I feel worried about coming to counselling, what should I do?
It is not uncommon for people to feel nervous about the prospect of counselling, especially if you have not had any experience of it before. Having an initial consultation is the best way to get a sense of what counselling will be like and address any uncertainty you may have. Counsellors are here to help you and have your best interests at heart.
My ‘Individual Counselling’ page also provides some details about what to expect from your initial consultation.
What kind of clients do you work with?
Counselling is sought for a wide range of reasons. As a result, it’s difficult to list all the types of situation that may bring you to seek support from counselling, please see my Home page for more details on what we can talk about.
Please do not be put off if you do not see yourself being mentioned in this list. You can book an initial consultation to talk through the reasons you are interested in counselling and if this feels right for you.
Please note, I work exclusively with over 18s in my private practice.
What is your cancellation policy?
Please be aware that missed or cancelled consultations or sessions will be charged at the full applicable rate.
What is confidentiality?
Confidentially signifies that I will not share any information about you, why you are coming to counselling or what we discuss with anyone else. There are some exceptions to this, such as if I was required to by law, or if I was concerned about your welfare. Confidentially is something we would always discuss in our initial consultation.
Please feel free to contact me with any further questions you may have.
MBACP Accredited Counsellor
Member of the Law Society of Scotland