Question 1

Does it matter where my counsellor is based?

Accepted Answer

Now that most people are online and have access to video calls, it matters less and less about where your counsellor is based.  I know in my practice, I see people across the UK, as the regulations around counselling vary from country to country.  If you are seeing a counsellor in a different country, it is important to check their insurance will cover their work.Naturally, location really matters more for face-to-face sessions. It is worth considering things like how big the area you live in is, are you likely to bump into your counsellor at supermarket or out socialising?  If this is likely, you may want to look for a counsellor slightly out of the area you live.  I find a lot of people come to me from the surrounding areas, such as Shoreham, Worthing, Horsham, even Crawley.  They use the time it takes to get here and back as time for reflection.  They sometimes make the most of being near the sea and spend a hour walking along the beach before heading home.  Finding the a counsellor in the right location is about thinking about what you need, is it somewhere you can pop to on the way home from work, or is it somewhere you can step away from normal life for an hour or two and focus on yourself.

Question 2

What qualifications should a counsellor have?

Accepted Answer

In the UK, counsellors are not statutorily regulated, but professionally trained counsellors complete a mimimum of level 4 accredited training and are registered with recognised professional bodies, such as BACP, NCPS or UKCP, which set ethical standards and help ensure safe, high-quality practice.  In my own practice, I am Level 7 trained and registered with the NCPS (National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society) and the ACC, meaning I work to a recognised ethical framework and engage in regular supervision and ongoing professional development to support safe and effective therapy.While you don’t need to understand all the qualification levels, what matters most is that your counsellor is properly trained, ethically accountable, and offers a safe, supportive space for you.

Question 3

Why is professional registration important?

Accepted Answer

At present, counselling and psychotherapy in the UK are largely regulated through voluntary professional bodies rather than statutory regulation. However, there have been ongoing discussions about introducing a statutory regulatory framework for the sector. This would define clear protected titles and scope of practice, ensuring that only practitioners who meet specific training and competency standards can use certain professional titles. The aim of such legislation is to improve public protection, increase consistency across the profession, and reduce confusion about therapist qualifications and roles. In the meantime, Professional Registers are one of the safest places to begin your search. A good place to find them is on the Professional Standards Authority (PSA) for Health and Social Care website.

Question 4

What does NCPS Accredited Registrant mean?

Accepted Answer

An NCPS Accredited Registrant (like me) is a counsellor or psychotherapist who is officially registered with the National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society (NCPS). This status means their training, ethical standards, and ongoing professional conduct have been independently checked and verified.What It Means for YouVerified Training: The therapist finished an approved training course and has the right skills to practice.High Ethical Standards: They follow a strict code of ethics and must handle complaints properly.Checked by the Government: The NCPS register is backed and approved by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA), an independent group that protects the public.Continuous Learning: The therapist keeps learning and improving their skills through regular training.

Question 5

Are counsellors insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes, professional counsellors are required to have insurance to protect both themselves and their clients.  Evidence of this is required before they can join a professional register, so it is worth checking your counsellor is listed on their professional bodies website, so you can be reassured they are working ethically and legally.

Question 6

Do counsellors have supervision?

Accepted Answer

Yes, professional counsellors have regular supervision to ensure they provide the best possible support to their clients.  This is another counsellor who is more experienced, and has additional training, to help counsellors reflect on their work and consider other ways of working.  Your counsellor cannot talk to their family or friends about their work, so it is important they have a safe, confidential and honest place to share their own experience of the work you do together. It also ensures they are working to high standards and in an ethical way.  The relationship between a supervisor and a counsellor is bound by the same confidentiality as any other counselling relationship.

Question 7

What should I look for in a therapist?

Accepted Answer

5 Things To Look for in a Counsellor or TherapistProfessional registration: Is the therapist registered with a voluntary professional body that is accredited by the PSA? By joining a voluntary register, therapists are agreeing to upholding high standards of training, conduct, and accountability. This oversight helps maintain consistency across professions and strengthens public confidence in the quality and safety of care.My Professional MembershipsNCPS The National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS) is a respected professional body that holds therapists to clear standards of training, ethics, and ongoing development.ACC The Association of Christians in Counselling and Linked Professions (ACC) is a professional body supporting counsellors who work in a faith-aware or spiritually sensitive way. This doesn’t mean therapy is “religious”; rather, it allows space for spiritual questions or beliefs if they are important to you.Qualifications and training: Check that the therapist holds a recognised qualification in counselling or psychotherapy that meets the standards of a reputable professional body. Most professional bodies require at least a level 4 diploma or degree-level qualification, with substantial supervised clinical practice. Higher-level registration (such as accredited membership or registration as a psychotherapist) often requires further postgraduate training, ongoing supervision, and continued professional development (CPD).My Qualifications and TrainingMasters in CounsellingThis is a level 7 qualification, allowing me to provide integrative counselling and psychotherapy. Integrative simply means I have trained to offer a range of  approaches and ways of working.Mental HealthI have extensive training from working in UK community mental health services, supporting clients with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, and complex mental health needs. My experience includes risk assessment, safeguarding, crisis support, and person-centred, recovery-focused care. Experience: Have they worked with the issues you’re facing? Experience is an important part of a therapist’s training and development. As part of their qualification, most counsellors are required to complete a supervised clinical placement where they work directly with clients. This allows them to apply their learning in real-world settings while being supported and guided by experienced professionals. For example, my own placement was in a hospice, which provided valuable experience working with grief, loss, and end-of-life care. When choosing a therapist, it can also be helpful to consider whether they have experience that feels relevant to what you are going through, as this can sometimes support a deeper understanding of your situation. Alongside clinical training, a therapist’s wider work and life experience can also contribute to their ability to connect with clients in a grounded, empathetic, and practical way.My Experience  HospiceAs part of my training, I took a placement at St Barnabas Hospice (Worthing). This gave me the training, skills and confidence to work with grief, loss and the life transitions they naturally create.Community-based Mental HealthMy experience working in UK community mental health services has given me a deep understanding of the challenges people face with anxiety, depression, and more complex mental health needs. I’ve supported clients in real-life, day-to-day situations, offering practical, compassionate help through difficult times, including crisis and periods of high distress. This hands-on experience allows me to provide grounded, person-centred support that meets you where you are and helps you move forward at your own pace.Approach: Do they explain how they work? Does it feel like something that would suit you? There are several different approaches to counselling, and a good therapist will usually tailor their way of working to suit your needs rather than relying on just one method. Some therapies, such as person-centred counselling, focus on providing a safe, supportive, and non-judgemental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace. Others, like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), are more structured and help you understand the links between thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, with a focus on changing unhelpful patterns. Psychodynamic therapy looks more deeply at how past experiences and relationships may be influencing your present-day emotions and ways of relating to others. Many therapists work in an integrative way, drawing from a range of approaches depending on what feels most helpful for you. Most professional bodies and therapy directories also provide clear, detailed explanations of these different approaches and many other types of therapy, which can be a helpful way to learn more and find a style of working that feels right for you. My ApproachIf I were to explain my approach in a nutshell, it would be that each session with me is person-centred,  which means it is focused on you, and whatever you decide to bring that day. We go at your pace, and are led by you. I integrate this with a psychodynamic understanding, so that we can explore how past patterns and experiences are influencing you in the here and now. I am also trained to provide CBT, to help you understand and challenge your thoughts. Personal Fit: Personal fit is often one of the most important parts of the therapeutic relationship. Even when a therapist is well-qualified and experienced, what really matters is whether you feel comfortable, heard, and respected in their presence. Therapy works best when there is a sense of trust and safety, where you feel able to speak openly without fear of judgement. It’s also completely normal for this to take a session or two to settle into, as relationships naturally take time to build. Different therapists have different styles and personalities, so finding someone whose approach and way of being feels right for you can make a real difference to how supported you feel in the work together.If my approach resonates with you, I’d be delighted to meet you.Taking the first step can feel daunting, so I've made the booking process as simple as possible. You can book a free 15-minute consultation online at a time that suits you, with instant access to my real-time availability. Appointment details, payments, session links, and reminders are all handled automatically, making the process seamless and stress-free.  If online booking isn't your thing, that's absolutely fine too. You're welcome to contact me by email, text, or phone, and I'll be happy to help you find a suitable appointment time.

Question 8

Should I see a specialist counsellor?

Accepted Answer

Would it be too on the fence to say: it depends on what has brought you to therapy?Many counsellors work with a wide range of issues, while others choose to develop additional knowledge and experience in particular areas. If you're seeking support for something specific, such as grief, pregnancy or infant loss, pet bereavement, or a significant life transition, you may find it reassuring to work with someone who has a particular interest or specialist training in that area.However, it's important to remember that you are more than the challenge you're facing. Therapy isn't just about understanding grief, anxiety or trauma, it's about understanding you. A skilled counsellor will take time to understand your unique experiences, relationships, strengths and goals, rather than simply focusing on a diagnosis or life event.When choosing a counsellor, consider both their experience and how you feel when talking with them. A therapist's qualifications, approach and areas of expertise matter, but so does the quality of the therapeutic relationship. Feeling heard, respected and understood is one of the strongest foundations for successful therapy.If you're unsure whether a counsellor is the right fit, don't be afraid to ask about their experience, how they work, and whether they feel they are the best person to support you. An ethical counsellor will always be honest and, if appropriate, help you find someone whose expertise better matches your needs.As a counsellor specialising in grief, loss and life transitions, I welcome these conversations. If I'm not the right person for your journey, I'll always do my best to point you towards someone who may be.

Question 9

Is it better to choose a counsellor who has experienced what I've experienced?

Accepted Answer

It's a question many people ask, but I'm afraid there isn't a simple yes or no answer.A counsellor doesn't need to have lived through the exact same experiences as you to offer meaningful support. Their role isn't to compare stories or say, "I know exactly how you feel." Instead, their professional training helps them understand how people respond to loss, change, trauma and life's challenges, while recognising that every person's experience is unique.Some counsellors, like me, do have personal experience of the issues they work with, and this may have influenced the path they chose professionally. However, effective therapy comes from much more than shared experience. It comes from the ability to listen deeply, build a trusting therapeutic relationship, understand psychological processes and support you in making sense of your own story.You may find it helpful to choose a counsellor with particular knowledge or specialist training in the area you want support with. For example, if you are navigating grief, loss or a significant life transition, you might feel reassured working with someone like me, who has dedicated additional study and experience in those areas.Ultimately, the quality of the therapeutic relationship is one of the strongest predictors of successful therapy. Feeling heard, respected, understood and safe is often more important than whether your counsellor has lived through exactly the same circumstances.If I had one suggestion, it would be that during a consultation, ask yourself:Do I feel listened to?Do I feel comfortable talking to this person?Do I feel accepted without judgement?Can I imagine building trust with them?
Those questions are often more important than finding someone whose life looks like your own.

Question 10

How do I choose the right counsellor?

Accepted Answer

5 Things To Look for in a Counsellor or TherapistProfessional registration: Is the therapist registered with a voluntary professional body that is accredited by the PSA? By joining a voluntary register, therapists are agreeing to upholding high standards of training, conduct, and accountability. This oversight helps maintain consistency across professions and strengthens public confidence in the quality and safety of care.My Professional MembershipsNCPS The National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS) is a respected professional body that holds therapists to clear standards of training, ethics, and ongoing development.ACC The Association of Christians in Counselling and Linked Professions (ACC) is a professional body supporting counsellors who work in a faith-aware or spiritually sensitive way. This doesn’t mean therapy is “religious”; rather, it allows space for spiritual questions or beliefs if they are important to you.Qualifications and training: Check that the therapist holds a recognised qualification in counselling or psychotherapy that meets the standards of a reputable professional body. Most professional bodies require at least a level 4 diploma or degree-level qualification, with substantial supervised clinical practice. Higher-level registration (such as accredited membership or registration as a psychotherapist) often requires further postgraduate training, ongoing supervision, and continued professional development (CPD).My Qualifications and TrainingMasters in CounsellingThis is a level 7 qualification, allowing me to provide integrative counselling and psychotherapy. Integrative simply means I have trained to offer a range of  approaches and ways of working.Mental HealthI have extensive training from working in UK community mental health services, supporting clients with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, and complex mental health needs. My experience includes risk assessment, safeguarding, crisis support, and person-centred, recovery-focused care. Experience: Have they worked with the issues you’re facing? Experience is an important part of a therapist’s training and development. As part of their qualification, most counsellors are required to complete a supervised clinical placement where they work directly with clients. This allows them to apply their learning in real-world settings while being supported and guided by experienced professionals. For example, my own placement was in a hospice, which provided valuable experience working with grief, loss, and end-of-life care. When choosing a therapist, it can also be helpful to consider whether they have experience that feels relevant to what you are going through, as this can sometimes support a deeper understanding of your situation. Alongside clinical training, a therapist’s wider work and life experience can also contribute to their ability to connect with clients in a grounded, empathetic, and practical way.My Experience  HospiceAs part of my training, I took a placement at St Barnabas Hospice (Worthing). This gave me the training, skills and confidence to work with grief, loss and the life transitions they naturally create.Community-based Mental HealthMy experience working in UK community mental health services has given me a deep understanding of the challenges people face with anxiety, depression, and more complex mental health needs. I’ve supported clients in real-life, day-to-day situations, offering practical, compassionate help through difficult times, including crisis and periods of high distress. This hands-on experience allows me to provide grounded, person-centred support that meets you where you are and helps you move forward at your own pace.Approach: Do they explain how they work? Does it feel like something that would suit you? There are several different approaches to counselling, and a good therapist will usually tailor their way of working to suit your needs rather than relying on just one method. Some therapies, such as person-centred counselling, focus on providing a safe, supportive, and non-judgemental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace. Others, like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), are more structured and help you understand the links between thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, with a focus on changing unhelpful patterns. Psychodynamic therapy looks more deeply at how past experiences and relationships may be influencing your present-day emotions and ways of relating to others. Many therapists work in an integrative way, drawing from a range of approaches depending on what feels most helpful for you. Most professional bodies and therapy directories also provide clear, detailed explanations of these different approaches and many other types of therapy, which can be a helpful way to learn more and find a style of working that feels right for you. My ApproachIf I were to explain my approach in a nutshell, it would be that each session with me is person-centred,  which means it is focused on you, and whatever you decide to bring that day. We go at your pace, and are led by you. I integrate this with a psychodynamic understanding, so that we can explore how past patterns and experiences are influencing you in the here and now. I am also trained to provide CBT, to help you understand and challenge your thoughts. Personal Fit: Personal fit is often one of the most important parts of the therapeutic relationship. Even when a therapist is well-qualified and experienced, what really matters is whether you feel comfortable, heard, and respected in their presence. Therapy works best when there is a sense of trust and safety, where you feel able to speak openly without fear of judgement. It’s also completely normal for this to take a session or two to settle into, as relationships naturally take time to build. Different therapists have different styles and personalities, so finding someone whose approach and way of being feels right for you can make a real difference to how supported you feel in the work together.If my approach resonates with you, I’d be delighted to meet you.Taking the first step can feel daunting, so I've made the booking process as simple as possible. You can book a free 15-minute consultation online at a time that suits you, with instant access to my real-time availability. Appointment details, payments, session links, and reminders are all handled automatically, making the process seamless and stress-free.  If online booking isn't your thing, that's absolutely fine too. You're welcome to contact me by email, text, or phone, and I'll be happy to help you find a suitable appointment time.

Question 11

How do I know if a counsellor is right for me?

Accepted Answer

Finding the right counsellor is a little like finding the right pair of walking boots for a long journey. They don't need to be perfect, but they do need to feel like a good fit.It's natural to wonder whether you'll "click" with a counsellor. While qualifications and experience are important, one of the biggest predictors of successful therapy is the quality of the therapeutic relationship. Feeling safe, heard and understood creates the foundation for meaningful change.As you get to know a counsellor, ask yourself:Do I feel listened to without judgement?Do I feel respected and accepted?Can I be honest, even when things feel difficult?Do I feel safe enough to be myself?Does this feel like someone I could learn to trust?You don't have to feel completely comfortable straight away. Many people feel nervous during their first session, and it can take time to build trust. What's important is whether you leave feeling that the relationship has the potential to grow.A good counsellor will also be honest if they feel another therapist or a different approach would better meet your needs. Therapy is about finding the right support for you, not simply filling an appointment.That's why I offer a free 15-minute consultation. It's an opportunity for us to meet, for you to ask questions, and to get a sense of whether I feel like the right person to support you. There is no obligation to book, and I encourage you to choose the therapist who feels like the best fit for your journey.

Question 12

What happens during a free consultation?

Accepted Answer

This is a relaxed, informal conversation lasting around 15–20 minutes. It gives you space to share a little about what’s bringing you to counselling, ask any questions you may have, and get a sense of how I work. It’s also an opportunity for you to notice whether working together feels right for you.

To give you a rough idea, every free consultation is different, but the calls usually involve me asking something along the lines of 'so what brings you to therapy' and 'what do you hope to get from therapy?'.  I will tell you a little about how I work, if that would be helpful, and I may ask you about any therapy you have had before, what has helped, and what has not helped. From there we can book in your first session, or you can take some time to think about what you'd like to do next.  There is no expectation or pressure.

Question 13

What questions should I ask before starting counselling?

Accepted Answer

Choosing a counsellor is an important decision, and it's perfectly okay to ask questions before deciding whether they're the right person for you. A good therapist will understand that you're looking for someone you feel safe, comfortable and confident working with.I have experienced a mixture of people in my free consultations, some come with a list of questions, most come with none at all, and others think of things afterward and so I always encourage follow up questions in email, text, WhatsApp or call.Here are some questions I's ask if I was looking for a counsellor:What qualifications and professional registration do you have?Do you have experience supporting people with the issues I'm facing?What therapeutic approaches do you use?What can I expect from the first session?How much do sessions cost, and how long do they last?How often do you recommend meeting?What is your cancellation policy?How do you keep my information confidential?Do you offer online or in-person sessions?What happens if I decide therapy isn't right for me?Remember, you're not interviewing someone to find the "perfect" therapist. You're looking for someone you feel you can trust and build a therapeutic relationship with.That's one of the reasons I offer a free 15-minute consultation. It's an opportunity for you to ask any questions you have, get a sense of how I work, and decide whether working together feels like the right fit. There is no pressure or obligation to book further sessions.It's okay to take your time. Finding the right counsellor is an investment in your wellbeing, and you deserve to feel comfortable with your choice.

Question 14

What if I'm nervous about contacting a counsellor?

Accepted Answer

If you're feeling nervous about getting in touch, you're not alone. In fact, many people tell me they spent weeks, or even months, thinking about contacting a counsellor before sending that first message. This is why I create so much social media content - so that you can get an idea of what I am like, how I talk and think, before reaching out.  That way, you know what to expect. You might be wondering:What if I don't know what to say?What if my problems aren't serious enough?What if I get upset?What if we don't click?What if therapy isn't right for me?These are all completely understandable concerns, and ones a good counsellor will anticipate.The first step doesn't have to be a big one. You don't need to tell me your whole story in your first email or phone call. Simply letting me know you'd like to find out more is enough. We can take it from there, one step at a time.That's one of the reasons I offer a free 15-minute consultation. It's an opportunity for you to ask questions, get a feel for how I work, and decide whether I feel like the right therapist for you. There is no obligation to book further sessions.Starting therapy can feel like stepping into the unknown, but you don't have to have everything figured out before you reach out. Sometimes, sending that first message is the hardest part of the journey.

Question 15

Does it matter if I don't 'click' with my counsellor?

Accepted Answer

The therapeutic relationship is important. You need to feel comfortable, safe and understood.  If your not feeling that from your therapist, it may be worth considering trying someone else. However, I would encourage you to reflect on why this is, and if you can, talk to your therapist about how you are feeling. Remember, in everyday life, relationship breaks often lead to abandonment or explosive fights. In a clinical setting like counselling, learning to communicate your needs, and then being heard and respected can lead to healthy repair, often offering a brand-new psychological experience.

Question 16

Can I change counsellors if it doesn't feel like the right fit?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it's important to find a counsellor you feel comfortable with. If it doesn't feel like the right fit, you can and should explore other options.There's one more thing I'd say about this though. The therapeutic relationship is important. You need to feel comfortable, safe and understood.  If your not feeling that from your therapist, it may be worth considering trying someone else. However, I would encourage you to reflect on why this is, and if you can, talk to your therapist about how you are feeling. Remember, in everyday life, relationship breaks often lead to abandonment or explosive fights. In a clinical setting like counselling, learning to communicate your needs, and then being heard and respected can lead to healthy repair, often offering a brand-new psychological experience.

Counselling FAQs