Is online counselling suitable for my needs?

Because you are an individual with individual needs, I need to know a little about you before we go any further.

This is the purpose of the initial consultation:- it is also an opportunity for you to ask me any questions, or to voice any concerns you may have.

Please note that Email counselling is not suitable if you need immediate attention. If you do, please visit the contacts page.

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How does online counselling differ from face to face counselling?

With face-to-face counselling, there is a more direct communication between counsellor and patient. For instance, non-verbal communications such as body language and facial expressions can play a subtle but important role in the counselling process.

Email counselling, on the other hand, places more emphasis on the written word. This has a number of advantages. You may find the act of writing down your thoughts and feelings a powerful catharsis in itself.

Also, unlike "conventional" counselling, you have an ongoing written record to refer back to.

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How long does it take?

In most cases, one email is sufficient. However, if I feel you require more, I will of course advise you during our first communication.

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I am apprehensive about discussing my feelings with a complete stranger. Can you reassure me?

Hopefully, after receiving your first reply you will find that I have an open, balanced and non-judgemental view of life.

Everything you divulge will be treated with the utmost respect, compassion and confidentiality.

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Is your style of counselling suitable for my needs?

I use an integrative approach. This means I draw from a wide range of counselling styles, alongside my own extensive life experiences.

This enables me to adapt my style to best suit your needs.
Ultimately though, you need to feel comfortable with my approach.

If, at any time you do not feel happy, please feel free to voice your concerns.

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Does coming for counselling mean that I am weak or that I have failed?

These kinds of thoughts may seem to protect us, but really they only prevent us from reaching out.

Personally, I regard the act of reaching out as an affirmative and courageous step. How can this be regarded as a weakness or a failing?

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What is required of me?

I believe the way forward is through open and honest communication.

The more open and honest you are, the more you will assist the counselling process and, ultimately, your own progress.

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What does the initial consultation involve?

Before counselling anyone, I always insist on an initial consultation. This one-off consultation is free of charge.

The initial consultation does not involve any counselling as such, and is purely intended to find out if we can work together.

You have the choice to disclose as much or as little as you wish but, obviously, the more open and honest you are, the more I have to work with.

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When do I pay and how?

I do not insist on charging for the service I provide. I believe in the natural law of abundance, and generally find that people give back in according to their means, and the benefit they receive from our correspondence.

Donations can be made via Paypal. This is a convenient, secure online sevice, allowing you to make payment via credit card. Just click where you see the Paypal logo on this site and follow the online instructions.

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