Frequently Asked Questions

Once I have received an enquiry message from you, I aim to respond within 24 hours. I will arrange a time for us to speak on the phone to help us both decide whether I am the right therapist for you and will then hopefully  arrange a mutually convenient appointment time for us to start work together. If, for whatever reason, I do not feel that I am the right therapist for you, I will try to signpost you to a more appropriate service sot hat you get the support you need.

Most people feel quite apprehensive about their first session. I understand this, having been there myself,  and will do everything I can to make you feel at ease quickly. This session is about us both getting to know each other. You will be able to tell me what has brought you to counselling and what you hope to achieve by coming. Don't worry though if you don't know what has prompted you to come - that's quite normal - we can explore it together. The first session will also include a little bit of paperwork to ensure that we both are in agreement as to how therapy will work.

I wish that I could give you a clear answer to this, but it really depends on the individual, and what you want to work through. I recommend that you initially plan to have between  4+6 sessions, so that we can really get to know each other, build a good relationship and plan a way forward. At this point we may well have a better sense, together, as to how long you want to continue for. Some people continue therapy for a couple of months, others for rather longer. We will regularly review how you feel it is going to ensure that you are still finding it beneficial. Some people may find that in the early stages of therapy as they stop, and begin to focus on themselves, they feel  as if things are moving backwards rather than forwards.  This is very normal and understandable. I would really urge you not to stop at this point but to commit to those early weeks so that you can begin to feel better. 

I work with individual adults age 16+. 

I currently work Monday, and Thursday. I have daytime and evening slots available on these days

It is very understandable to feel anxious the first time you come to therapy, but there really is no need to bring anyone. However, if you really feel you need someone with you, I would suggest that they leave you at the door and maybe come back to pick you up outside at the end of the session. The therapeutic relationship is unlike any other relationship. Having an extra person in the room will, undoubtably, change what you feel able to share and is likely to hinder you making the progress that you want to, irrespective of how close your relationship may be.

I am currently offering sessions via the telephone, online (zoom) and face-to-face.  The majority of my work is face-to-face as many people feel that they need the" in the room" presence of their therapist. However, I am also offering telephone and online therapy for those who would find this more accessible. Remote therapy; ie telephone or online, has become increasingly "the norm" during the covid pandemic and has been found to be highly beneficial.

Our first appointment will be confirmed once I receive payment. I ask that this is at least 48 hours before our appointment. 

Subsequent appointments can be paid via bank transfer, cash or cheque prior to the session.

My preferred method of payment is bank transfer, although I do accept, cash and cheque. 

I have a cosy, welcoming room, in the pretty, leafy village of Norton, where the coffee pot is always full!

The address is 75a Norton High Street, Norton, Stockton-on-Tees, TS20 1AA (above Gary Walsh Photography)

There is usually, free parking available on the high street . Alternatively, there is a free car park at the top of the high street behind Home Start charity shop (approx 100 yards)

Unfortunately, there is no waiting area outside my room so please arrive on time rather than early.