Ways to work together
I offer individual counselling and tailored support for organisations, designed around your specific needs.Here you’ll find more information about each service and what to expect.
Here are some things people often want to know before they get in touch.
You may be wondering..
What if I don't know where to start or what to say?
You don't need to arrive with anything prepared. Many people come to their first session unsure of where to begin, or feeling that their situation is too complicated, or not serious enough, to put into words. That's completely normal. We can start wherever feels possible, and find our way from there together.
What happens in the first session?
The first session is a chance to begin, not to have everything worked out. We'll talk about what has brought you here and what you're hoping for, but gently and without pressure. There's no assessment to pass and no right or wrong way to approach it. By the end we'll have a clearer sense of whether working together feels right for you.
What if it doesn't feel right?
Counselling works best when you feel comfortable with the person you're working with. If after an initial session you feel it isn't the right fit, that's completely fine and there's no obligation to continue. Your comfort and sense of safety matter more than anything else.
How many sessions will I need?
There's no fixed answer to this, and I won't make promises I can't keep. Some people find that a single session gives them the clarity or focus they need in that moment. Others prefer to work over a small number of sessions, and some find that longer term support feels right for them.
If you're drawn to the idea of a one-off focused conversation, my single session counselling option is designed exactly for that — a complete, standalone 90-minute session rather than a commitment to ongoing work.
Whatever feels right, we'll review how things are feeling as we go, and you're always in control of the pace and duration of our work together.
How does online counselling work?
Sessions take place via a secure video platform, from wherever feels comfortable and private for you. Many people find working online easier than they expected, and some prefer it. You can find out more about why I work online and what to expect on my Working Together page.
Do I need a referral?
No. You can contact me directly through this website or by email. You don't need a GP referral or any prior diagnosis to begin counselling.
Is everything confidential?
Yes. Everything you share in our sessions is held in strict confidence. I work in accordance with the BACP Ethical Framework, which sets clear professional standards around confidentiality and the responsible handling of everything you share with me.
There are a small number of circumstances in which confidentiality may need to be carefully considered, and I will explain these clearly in our first session before we begin our work together, so you feel fully informed from the start.
If you have any questions about confidentiality before we meet, you are welcome to raise them when we speak at the pre-counselling consultation stage.
How do I pay for sessions?
Payment is made by BACS bank transfer before each session. Details will be provided when we arrange our first appointment. Payment confirms your session booking, so please ensure it is made in advance of us meeting.
What is your cancellation policy?
I ask for at least 48 hours notice if you need to cancel or reschedule a session. Appointments cancelled within 48 hours of your appointment, and missed sessions, are charged at the full session fee.
I understand that unexpected situations can arise, and where possible I will always try to offer an alternative appointment within the same week. However, as a small independent practice, late cancellations are difficult to fill at short notice, and the full fee helps protect the time that has been set aside for you.
If you need to cancel please let me know as soon as you are able, by email at emma@twooakscounselling.co.uk
What do I do if I want to raise a concern?
If something doesn’t feel right in our work together, you’re very welcome to raise it with me. I will always take your concerns seriously and, where possible, we can try to work through them together.
If you don’t feel able to do that, or feel the issue hasn’t been resolved, you can make a formal complaint. Details of how to do this are included in the counselling agreement.
Make a start, get in touch
Taking the first step can feel like the hardest part. You don't need to have everything worked out or know exactly what to say. A short message is enough to begin.
Fill in the form and I'll be in touch within 48 hours.
