Frequently Asked Questions
I am concerned that things I talk about in the session may be disclosed to others
Anything that is discussed in a session remains confidential and is not disclosed to any other party. However, all counsellors are required to be in regular supervision in accordance with the Ethical Framework set by the BACP. This is to ensure counsellors are working as effectively as possible, with the client's best interest. If there should be a need to take issues to supervision, we can offer complete reassurance that anonymity is maintained at all times, and no personal details that could identify you are disclosed. Any notes kept remain confidential and are safely locked away. The only time that confidentiality may be breached is if a client reveals that they may harm themselves or others. However, in the rare event that this should happen, discussion with you, as a client, would always take place prior to this happening.
I have password protection and/or encryption on all devices that use electronic data, such as computer/phone/tablet. No one has access to passwords on devices but me, so if we converse via any of those methods in the way of email or text, you can be assured of confidentiality. I will only keep said correspondence for as long as necessary to process your request, after such times, the data will be deleted.
Where will I need to go for counselling and hypnotherapy?
Counselling Merseyside operates from our base in Formby.
Discuss your ability to travel to different locations and we can arrange alternative venues or other methods of counselling to fulfil your needs.
What happens if I can’t attend my counselling session?
Please leave a message on, 07912043872 and we will contact you to rearrange another appointment if you cancel within 48 hours of an appointment it will incur the full session charge.
What is the difference between counselling and therapy?
The terms "counsellor" and "therapist" are often used interchangeably. In a mental health context a "counsellor" is someone who has been trained to work alongside people to help them identify some of the following things: where they are, how they got where they are, where they want to be, and how they are going to get where they want to be. Counsellors in this context rarely (if ever) give advice. They are more concerned to work with clients to help them identify and achieve solutions to their problems. "Counselling" is often used to describe brief work that it targeted at particular problems or situations, with an emphasis on change, especially of behaviour.
"Therapy" is another word that is used in a variety of different contexts where people provide a helping service for someone. In a mental health context "therapy" tends to mean longer term work where the client is encouraged more to focus on underlying thoughts and feelings and motivations. Therapists stand back more from the present behaviour and encourage the client to dig deeper. They are concerned with change, but also with a particular greater self-awareness and understanding.
Is there an age limit?
Counselling and psychotherapy is available to everyone aged 16 and above. There is no upper age limit.