What is counselling?
If you’re new to therapy, it can help to think of it like going to the gym. You wouldn’t expect your body to transform after a single workout—and if you went only occasionally or took long breaks, progress would be slow and inconsistent. Real, lasting change comes from showing up regularly and putting in the effort over time.
Therapy works in much the same way. It isn’t a one-off experience or a quick fix, but an ongoing process of strengthening your emotional wellbeing. With consistency, patience, and commitment, it becomes a space where meaningful and lasting change can take shape.
Counselling is…
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A confidential space to talk openly and honestly
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A supportive relationship with a trained professional
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A chance to explore thoughts, feelings, and patterns
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A collaborative process that works at your pace
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Focused on understanding you as a whole person
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A way to gain clarity, insight, and coping strategies
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Grounded in evidence-based approaches and ethical practice
Counselling is not…
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Being told what to do or given quick fixes
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Advice-giving or life instruction
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Judgement or criticism
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A friendship or casual conversation
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Someone “fixing” you or your problems
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A one-size-fits-all approach
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A replacement for emergency or crisis services
What can
I expect?
After your initial enquiry over the phone or via email we will arrange a time for you to have an assessment with Anna via Google meet.
The assessment is treated like a first counselling session however in that time we will discuss your need for counselling, goals and answer any questions you have about the process of therapy. It is slightly longer than a regular counselling session so you do not feel rushed, additionally I will take a full case history so we do not miss anything that is important.
If you feel you want to go ahead then we would arrange a regular time to meet with myself.
There is no obligation after our assessment to go ahead with counselling, some people may change their mind or feel that therapy is not for them and that is fine. In order for counselling to be successful you have to be ready and willing to fully engage in the process. This means attending consistently and committing to once a week, at least for the first 6 sessions.