What is Counselling?
Not sure if counselling is right for you? You’re not alone.
Many people come to counselling having never tried it before, unsure of what to expect or whether it will help. If you’re curious but cautious — whether you’re in Deeping St James, Nottingham, or anywhere in the UK — this page is for you.
What is counselling?
Counselling is a talking therapy that gives you a safe, private space to explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences with a trained professional. It isn’t about being told what to do or being given advice. It’s about being truly listened to, without judgement, and supported in making sense of what’s going on for you.
Unlike a conversation with a friend or family member, counselling is entirely focused on you. There’s no agenda, no judgement, and no need to worry about how what you say might affect the other person. It’s a rare and valuable thing, a space that exists purely for you.
How is counselling different from talking to a friend?
Talking to someone you trust can be hugely helpful, and there’s nothing wrong with leaning on the people around you. But there are some important differences.
A counsellor is trained to listen in a particular way, to help you explore not just what you’re feeling, but why. We won’t offer opinions, take sides, or tell you what to do. We won’t bring our own problems into the room. And everything you share is completely confidential.
Sometimes it’s also simply easier to speak openly with someone you don’t know. There’s no history, no relationship to protect, and no fear of being judged. And sometimes there are things that have never been put into words at all – things that feel too heavy to share with the people closest to you. Counselling gives those things somewhere to go.
What happens when you get in touch?
Getting started is straightforward and there’s no pressure at any stage.
When you first reach out, whether by email, through my website contact form, or via a counselling directory, I’ll arrange a free initial telephone conversation of around 15 to 20 minutes. This is a chance for us to talk through what’s brought you to counselling, what you’re hoping to get from it, and for me to explain how I work and answer any practical questions you might have. Importantly, we’ll also explore together whether I am the right fit for you and your needs.
At the end of that call, you’re welcome to go away and take some time to think things over. If you feel ready, you can go ahead and book your first paid session. There’s no obligation and no pressure, just a warm, unhurried conversation to help you decide whether working together feels right for you.
How many sessions will I need?
There’s no fixed answer, and that’s actually a good thing. Some people find a handful of sessions gives them what they need. Others prefer to work over a longer period. What matters most is that the pace feels right for you. You can find more detail on this in my FAQs.
Is counselling right for me?
Counselling can help with a wide range of difficulties — anxiety, low mood, low self-esteem, difficult relationships, the lasting effects of a difficult or challenging childhood, or simply a feeling that something isn’t quite right. You don’t need a diagnosis or a crisis to deserve support. If something doesn’t feel right, that’s enough.
People sometimes worry that their problems aren’t serious enough, or that they should be able to cope on their own. But seeking support is not a sign of weakness. It’s a sign that you want more from your life, and that takes courage.
If you’re wondering whether counselling might help you, the chances are it could. As a private counsellor specialising in anxiety, low self-esteem and the lasting effects of difficult childhood experiences — and working in Deeping St James, Nottingham and online across the UK — I offer a free initial consultation call to anyone considering counselling. The best way to find out is simply to get in touch.
Ready to take the first step?
If anything on this page has resonated with you, I’d love to hear from you. Get in touch to arrange your free initial consultation call.
There’s no obligation and no pressure, just a warm, confidential conversation to see whether we might be a good fit.
Some things have been carried alone for so long they feel like they are just part of you. They do not have to be.
FAQs
The terms counselling and therapy are often used interchangeably, and in practice there is a great deal of overlap. Both involve working with a trained professional in a confidential space to explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences.
This is a really common concern and completely understandable, especially if you’ve never tried counselling before. You don’t need to arrive with an agenda or prepared topics. Sometimes simply saying “I don’t know where to start” is exactly the right place to begin. I’ll gently help you find your way in, and often the most important things emerge naturally once you feel safe enough to speak freely.
For some people, the early stages of counselling can feel challenging. Talking about difficult experiences or emotions – particularly ones that have been managed or pushed aside for a long time – can sometimes bring them closer to the surface before they begin to settle. This is completely normal, and is often a sign that the work is beginning. For people carrying the effects of a difficult or challenging childhood, this can be especially true in the early sessions. I will always work at a pace that feels manageable for you, and we’ll check in regularly to make sure the work feels right.