Question 1

What can I expect in the first session?

Accepted Answer

The first session is an opportunity for you to talk about what’s brought you to counselling and what you’d like to get out of the process. We’ll discuss your background, current concerns, and any questions you may have. There’s no pressure to share more than you feel comfortable with, and sessions move at your pace.

Question 2

How often are sessions?

Accepted Answer

Most clients attend weekly at the beginning. Some people choose to come more often though, depending on the circumstances. Frequency can change over time depending on your needs, goals, and availability.

Question 3

How long does counselling last?

Accepted Answer

The length of counselling varies depending on your goals and circumstances. Some people attend for a short period to work through a specific issue, while others choose longer-term therapy for deeper or ongoing work. We’ll review progress regularly and adjust as needed.

Question 4

How do I know if Ben is the right counsellor for me?

Accepted Answer

Feeling safe and comfortable with your counsellor is essential. That’s why Ben offers a free 15-minute telephone or video consultation, giving you the opportunity to ask questions, learn more about his approach, and decide whether working together feels like a good fit.

Question 5

How do I book a consultation or appointment?

Accepted Answer

You can book an initial consultation by getting in touch via the contact page, messaging on the Whatsapp link or by email.

Question 6

What can I bring to counselling?

Accepted Answer

Ben works with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, religious trauma, existential issues, stress, grief, eating disorders, addiction, self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. If you’re unsure whether counselling is right for your situation, a free consultation can help clarify this.

Question 7

Can I stop therapy at any time?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You may end your sessions whenever you feel necessary, just by letting your therapist know. You don’t have to explain or give any notice. Or you may wish to take a counselling break and resume therapy, when you are ready, at a later date.

Question 8

How much do sessions cost?

Accepted Answer

Individual sessions are £80, block bookings of 8 sessions are £75 per session, couples £100 and concessions £55. If you are unsure if you qualify for a concessionary rate please reach out to discuss your circumstances.

Question 9

How can I pay for sessions?

Accepted Answer

Ben accepts payment by bank transfer, or cash/contactless payment in person if that’s preferable.

Question 10

How does couples counselling work?

Accepted Answer

In couples counselling, the relationship itself is the focus. Sessions provide a neutral space for both partners to feel heard, understand patterns in the relationship, and work toward healthier communication and connection. Ben works collaboratively with both partners in a respectful and non-judgemental way.

Question 11

What if my partner is unsure about couples counselling?

Accepted Answer

It’s common for partners to feel hesitant at first. Couples counselling doesn’t aim to assign blame or take sides. Instead, it focuses on understanding the relationship dynamic and supporting both partners. A consultation can be a helpful first step to explore whether it feels right.

Question 12

Can I have couples counselling alongside individual sessions?

Accepted Answer

Yes. It can be very effective to have individual sessions in conjunction with couples sessions, as long as both partners are willing to attend individual sessions. It would not be ethical to work with just one partner individually alongside couples work, as it can lead to a feeling of imbalance or bias within the couples work.

Question 13

Can we start couples therapy if I'm already seeing you individually?

Accepted Answer

As long as your partner is willing to have at least one or two individual sessions before starting sessions together, I'm happy to work with you both. That way, I can get to know them and their experience and they can feel comfortable entering couples work without feeling a bias or imbalance in the room.

Question 14

How many sessions does EMDR need?

Accepted Answer

It can usually take a couple of sessions at least to prepare for EMDR and then a number of sessions of processing - it's not possible to put a figure on that before we begin. It can be as few as one or two, and as many as ten or more. It really depends on the circumstances and the negative experiences to be processed out.

Question 15

Do I need to talk in detail about past trauma for EMDR to work?

Accepted Answer

No. EMDR does not require you to describe traumatic events in detail. The focus is on how the experience is affecting you now, and sessions are paced to ensure you feel supported and in control.

Question 16

What is EMDR, and is it right for me?

Accepted Answer

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy that helps process distressing or traumatic experiences. It can be helpful for trauma, anxiety, phobias, grief, and other issues linked to past experiences. EMDR is always offered in a safe, structured, and client-led way, with careful preparation beforehand.

Question 17

Do I need to be in crisis to start counselling?

Accepted Answer

No. Counselling isn’t only for times of crisis. You might seek therapy because you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, anxious, disconnected, or simply wanting greater self-understanding and growth. Many people come to counselling to improve their wellbeing or relationships, not just to address acute difficulties.

Question 18

What age clients do you work with?

Accepted Answer

Typically Ben works with individuals aged 16 and above, but is happy to make exceptions in the context of family therapy where children under 16 are involved.

Question 19

Is counselling confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Counselling is confidential, with some legal and ethical limits. These include situations where there is a risk of serious harm to yourself or others, or where disclosure is required by law. Ben will explain confidentiality clearly and answer any questions you may have.