How old are the young people that you see?

I offer sessions to young people between 5 and 18 years of age. However old the client is there is an emphasis on using art and play materials - this can help the space to feel OK but part of my skill is the ability to use resources to support the impact of therapy. This includes painting and drawing, playing games, role play, telling stories, sand tray and using puppets.

How do you know that I am the right counsellor?

The therapeutic relationship is at the heart of our work and it is important that time is taken to make the right decision.  Should you make an enquiry and I am able to offer a weekly space, I offer a free 30 minute consultation where an adult can visit ‘The Nook’ with or without the child being offered therapy.  This is an opportunity to see the space, ask questions about the work and to speak about hopes and wishes for therapy. We will have a confidential and constructive chat about how things are for you and your child right now. This is particularly useful if you're considering counselling for them but are not sure how it can be helpful and what the next step might be. There is no pressure to commit and you don't have to make a decision on the day.

How do you know if you should commit to short-term or long-term counselling?

I can support with this at the enquiry stage.  I would be grateful for some information in the early stages to ensure we plan for the right number of sessions and to ensure that I have the capacity to hold the space for the time needed.

What if short-term or long-term counselling doesn’t feel right for your child?

It is important that the service offered is right for the child and family setting, and I would encourage transparency from the start about how you view the therapy taking place. Consistency is important for the effectiveness of the work and we can discuss how you feel the organisation of sessions might work best for you and the young person.

When do the sessions take place?

Sessions are 50 minutes long. They take place at the same time, every week. For very young children it may be more suitable for a shorter session at a reduced rate.

Are there breaks in therapy routine?

I offer sessions in line with the Brighton & Hove school calendar. Sessions are therefore offered in term-time meaning there are breaks during the school holidays.

How do you pay for an appointment?

Payment is to be paid by either cash or BACS transfer on the day of the session. You are also able to pay in advance.

What happens if you can't make the appointment?

I respectfully ask for 48 hours notice if a child cannot make a session.  If notice is less than this the session is chargeable - it may be possible that the session can be rearranged but this is at my discretion.  If there needs to be a break from therapy it is to be agreed a minimum of 4 weeks in advance of the planned break - I will adhere to this for any breaks I take.

Is there space where someone can wait during the session?

I do not offer a waiting area. I ask that children arrive on time for their session and that collection is prompt.

Can the number of short-term sessions be extended?

Towards the end of the contracted number of sessions there will be a review of the work. It might be suitable to create another short-term contract or move to a long-term contract.

How is long-term work reviewed?

Long-term work is reviewed after the initial 20 sessions. The reviews acknowledge the progress of the work with the voice of the child, parent/carer and therapist.