Reflective Living Counselling

IN PERSON, ONLINE AND BY PHONE

CALL 07464 276643
CONTACT ME BY EMAIL

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What happens after I make initial contact ?

I aim to respond to messages within 24 hours. If you have further questions at this point, we can arrange a free 20-minute phone call in order to address these. Alternatively, you might prefer to book a full 50-minute session which would provide you with the opportunity to ‘meet’ me and experience how we might work together. 

This would provide me with the opportunity to find out about what you are bringing and ensure I am well placed to support you. This will also allow you to make an informed decision as to how you would like to progress.

Will everything I say be kept confidential?

Everything that is said within the counselling room is private. Once you are comfortable with the format of weekly sessions and the safe space they provide, you will find the freedom to speak in confidence is of great value.


If a situation were to arise where I am concerned that you may be at risk to yourself or to others, the law requires that I notify an authority such as your GP or the emergency services. However, breaking confidentiality is very rare, and I would discuss this with you before any contact would be made.

How many sessions will I need?

A common and understandable question.

This is not easily answered but you will know in advance if you can only attend a fixed number of sessions – if that is the case, we can set objectives which are realistic for that time frame. Otherwise, I normally suggest we plan 4-6 sessions and then review. Some people just need a few sessions, others need a more ongoing, open ended approach.

How often will I need counselling sessions?

Counselling is most successful when attended regularly at the agreed same time each week which is fixed at the outset. In my view, when first starting counselling, weekly appointments are best. When counselling is effective, it’s largely because of the relationship between client and counsellor. Therefore, when building that initial relationship, the commitment to regular weekly meetings where possible is going to be most helpful to kickstart the therapeutic process. Even if you've been in therapy for some time, it's better not to go too long between sessions as it will slow progress.

What are the benefits of online/telephone counselling?
  • It is more accessible than face to face therapy It can allow more flexibility with regards to scheduling
  • You can create a comfortable and private space in your own home from which to attend therapy
  • You may find it easier to talk, focus and express yourself than in person
  • You may enjoy wearing comfortable clothes, bringing a cup of tea
  • You save time and avoid a commute after a therapy session, appreciating some space to yourself afterwards
  • It may be more convenient if you find it difficult to travel
  • It may be more convenient if you don’t have the means or opportunity to travel to and from therapy
  • Research shows that online/telephone counselling is as effective as in-person counselling
What might be the challenges to online/telephone counselling?
  • Possible internet connection difficulties       
  • We do not see the whole of each other and may have to use more verbal explanations as a result     
  • Using a computer screen may be quite demanding, especially if using a computer in everyday life     
  • Finding a private space to talk privately without interruption
What should I consider if thinking about online/telephone counselling?
  • Do you have access to a space where you can talk privately?        
  • Are you comfortable using internet technology? (I can help guide you to set up the virtual ‘room’)       
  • Is there a computer that you can use privately without interruption?  
  • Would you prefer to see a counsellor face to face?      
  • Do you feel your situation is too complex to discuss via the internet?   
  • Telephone counselling is different from how you probably usually use the telephone; it is a therapy service not a two-way conversation.
Why do you only use Zoom for online sessions?

I take online confidentiality very seriously which includes consideration as to the online platform that I use, and it is for this reason that sessions take place via Zoom. Zoom offers secure end to end encryption ensuring our arranged online sessions are both private and secure. Our sessions cannot be intercepted or recorded by any third party. As added security measures, I use the waiting room facility to ensure that only you can enter the meeting room and I then lock the room after connection. Other similar online platforms do not offer this level of security. Nonetheless, insofar as no digital technology can be 100% guaranteed, I cannot accept responsibility in the unlikely event that there was ever a breach outside of my or your control.

Please do ask if you are unfamiliar with Zoom and need help finding your way on to the platform as I am more than happy to help guide you through the process.

©2021 Sara Luck

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