Taking the first step towards counselling can feel daunting, and it's natural to have questions about what to expect. I aim to make the process as straightforward and comfortable as possible, offering you a safe, confidential space to explore whatever has brought you here.
I offer a reduced-fee initial consultation online (50 minutes) or a free telephone call (15 minutes) to help you get started. In this first conversation, we'll explore what's brought you to counselling, discuss any specific goals you may have, and see whether we feel like a good fit to work together.
I offer counselling in three formats to suit your circumstances and preferences. Face-to-face sessions take place at my practices in Haywards Heath and Lewes, providing a dedicated space away from everyday life where you can focus entirely on yourself.
Online sessions via secure video platform offer the same confidential, supportive environment from the comfort of your own home, making counselling more accessible if you have mobility challenges, caring responsibilities or a busy schedule.
Telephone sessions can be particularly helpful if you prefer not to be on camera or find it easier to talk when you're not being watched. Whichever format you choose, the quality of support remains the same.
I'm an integrative counsellor, which means I draw on different therapeutic approaches and tailor my work to suit your individual needs. Rather than following a single method, I adapt my approach as our work together evolves, using whichever perspective might be most helpful for you at any given time.
At the heart of my work is a person-centred approach. This means I see you as the expert in your own life and experience. I offer you a warm, accepting space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgement, trusting in your capacity to find your own way forward with support.
I also draw on cognitive-behavioural approaches, including compassion-focused therapy, to help you notice connections between your thoughts, feelings and behaviours. We might explore unhelpful patterns, understand where they come from, and gently experiment with new ways of responding that feel more helpful to you.
When it seems useful, we may explore psychodynamic and relational perspectives, looking at how past experiences continue to shape your present relationships and sense of self. This can help you understand yourself more deeply and make sense of recurring themes in your life.
People come to counselling for many different reasons, and I welcome anyone who feels they might benefit from having someone to talk to. You might be facing a specific crisis, dealing with ongoing challenges, or seeking a deeper understanding of yourself. I have experience of helping people with a wide range of issues including:
"Whatever your circumstances, whether you're facing work-related stress, pregnancy-related concerns, redundancy, or any other difficulty, I can adapt my approach to meet your unique needs."
How do I know if I need counselling?
There's no single answer to this, as everyone's circumstances are different. You don't need to be in crisis or have a diagnosed condition to benefit from counselling. Many people come when they're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply sense that something isn't quite right. If you're finding it hard to cope with daily life, noticing patterns you'd like to change, feeling disconnected from yourself or others, or going through a difficult transition, counselling might help.
What happens in the first session?
In your first session, we'll take time to explore what's brought you to counselling and what you're hoping to gain from our work together. I'll explain how I work, answer any questions you have about the process, and we'll discuss practical arrangements. There's no pressure to share more than you're comfortable with, and we can take things at your pace. This first meeting helps us both get a sense of whether we can work well together.
How long does counselling last?
This varies from person to person. Some people find that short-term counselling over a few weeks or months is enough to help them through a specific difficulty, whilst others benefit from longer-term work over several months or even years.
Is everything I say confidential?
Yes, everything you share in our sessions is completely confidential. I won't discuss what you tell me with anyone else without your permission. The only exceptions to this would be if you disclosed something that suggested you or someone else was at serious risk of harm, or if I were required by law to share information.
How much does counselling cost, and do you offer concessions?
Sessions cost £50 for 50 minutes in Haywards Heath or online, and £55 for 50 minutes in Lewes. I do offer reduced fees for students and those experiencing financial difficulties, so please get in touch to discuss this if cost is a concern.
What's your cancellation policy?
I ask for 48 hours' notice if you need to cancel or rearrange a session. This gives me time to offer the slot to someone else who may be waiting. If you cancel with less than 48 hours' notice, or don't attend your session, you'll still need to pay the full session fee. I understand that emergencies happen, and I'll always try to be as flexible as I can.
© Annabelle Clarke Counselling
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