What happens at my first appointment?

The first session will normally last 60 minutes. It is a taster to get to know one another and help us to decide if we wish to work together and if there are any known conflicts of interest (e.g. knowing members of the same family or friendship group, as this might prejudice our counselling relationship). Often this is a time to hear some of the client’s history and main concerns and goals for counselling and to allow any questions the client might have regarding working with me at Tebah Counselling. I will also reiterate my terms of the business contract and this should enable you to decide whether to proceed or not. If we decide to continue working together then we will enter into a contract (also attached).

What happens next?

The appointment to begin counselling is usually set for the following week. As an integrative counsellor, I offer weekly therapy, usually at the same time each week, with each session lasting 60 minutes, as this aids the flow of the sessions, especially at the beginning of therapy.

During sessions, as relationship is key in counselling, I aim to create a safe, confidential space without judgement, for you to share your story, explore your needs and wants and fears and expectations.

As an integrative counsellor, I use different modes of counselling, depending on what you need at that particular time, whether it’s simply listening and reflecting back, or using more creative approaches. We might use breathing, relaxation and visualisation exercises which can also be beneficial, or look at relationships, strengths and weaknesses, and available supports. We might look back at your childhood, where many of our patterns of thought and behaviour are developed and review coping strategies, which have previously been helpful, but are now undermining the client in their day to day life.

What if I need to cancel?

Please give me at least 24 hours (more if possible) notice if you cannot attend. Cancelling at shorter notice will require you to pay for the session if you do not attend.

How many sessions will I need?

We normally contract for six sessions and then review how things are going. Every person and situation is different; some clients will find they only need a few sessions, while others might choose to work over a longer period of time where there are more complex or longstanding issues to resolve.

Confidentiality

The content of your sessions will not be disclosed without your written permission. If Liz feels she needs to share information with a third party, e.g. a GP or psychiatrist, she will discuss this with you first. However, confidentiality cannot be granted if you disclose that you intend to harm yourself or another person or where there is a child protection issue or a criminal act is divulged.

Supervision

Liz attends regular clinical supervision to ensure safe practice in line with BACP’s guidelines to ensure safe practice and that you receive the best possible care. From time to time, she may bring her work with you to her supervisor, always ensuring anonymity by not giving name or other distinguishing features.

Records and Recording

Liz will keep a written record of each of your sessions together. The record will be safely kept in a locked filing cabinet. The record will be destroyed 5 years after your last session (Data protection act, 1998). Liz may ask your permission to record your therapy session as part of her clinical supervision and would ask for you to give signed authorisation. You will be asked prior to the session for your permission and can decline without this affecting your care.

Ethical practice

Tebah Counselling operates under the ethical guidelines of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).