What to expect during a counselling session?

I aim to provide a safe, caring and confidential space giving you the chance to talk with someone that is trained to listen to your concerns. I, your Counsellor will help you to explore your thoughts, feelings, worries or concerns in a dependable way so that you can reach your own decisions. 

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How many sessions will we have?

I usually suggest to all potential clients that we meet for an initial session to get to know each other, to find out what has brought you to counselling.  This is so you can feel comfortable working with me and ask any questions while getting a feel for how I work. This initial session can either be a free 30-minute session or a full 50-minute session at my standard fee.

My approach is that, if both of us feel the sessions are of therapeutic benefit to you, then there is no set amount. However, I am also happy to work to a set number of sessions, usually six to begin with, after which we can review our progress.

 

Confidentiality 

Everything we discuss in our sessions is strictly confidential. I will never discuss anything personal we talk about with anyone outside of our sessions. The only time I may need to talk to another professional is if any of the following circumstances apply:

1. I may use material from the sessions for supervision purposes, whilst guaranteeing to protect your anonymity. (Information will be kept secure, according to BACP guidelines and the Data Protection Act. You have the right to have access to notes upon request.) 

2. If required by a court to release details, if a criminal act has been or is about to be committed, or if I believe there to be a real risk that you may harm yourself or others, I will discuss with you the need to break confidentiality.

3. If children are involved, we are legally obliged to disclose information appropriately. It may be necessary to do so without your consent.

4. I am legally required to report what is considered in the public interest, such as acts of terrorism, drug trafficking, murder, child abuse and rape. I do not need to gain consent to do so.

 

As part of my work as a counsellor I attend regular supervision. I may from time to time discuss our work together, but I do not disclose your personal information and confidentiality is maintained always.

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I request that you provide the name and address of your GP and I may contact them if I considered it necessary, but would always endeavour to discuss this with you first.

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Personal Information 

I may, from time to time, take brief notes following our session. These will be stored in a locked filing cabinet always and only accessed by myself if necessary. 

Any other information like emails or texts will be deleted, as well as any notes I take, at the end of the therapy. If you would like more details about the information I hold and how I use it, please let me know.

 

Pricing Structure 

My fee for a 50-minute Counselling session is £40.00 (in person) or £35.00 (by phone or video call), payable at the start of each session by cash or bank transfer.

I offer reduced rates to people in full time education or on benefits. The exact rate will be discussed during our first session.

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Location of Sessions

In-person counselling sessions are held on the second floor of the Storey Institute, Meeting House Lane, Lancaster. I will meet you at the door for our first session and take you up to the room, so you will know the way for future sessions. There is no waiting area, so it is best to arrive on time rather than a few minutes early. 

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What happens if I can’t make the appointment we arranged?

Provided you let me know that you are unable to attend at least 48 hours before the appointment, there will be no charge for the session. Cancelled appointments will be rescheduled for the following week.  If you need to be seen sooner then I will endeavour to accommodate you, however it will be subject to available time slots. Please note that full payment will be required for all missed sessions where at least 48 hours’ advance notice has not been given.

 

How can I contact you?

You can contact me on 07383 231011.  If I can’t answer immediately, please leave a message and I will call you back. You can also contact me via email at jonathanhaslamcounselling@gmail.com