​​​Little Lodge Counselling

​​​​Person-Centred Counselling in Bexhill-on-Sea.

F&Q

FAQ'S:

"What happens in the first initial session?"
The initial session serves as an opportunity for both the client and the counsellor to assess their compatibility for ongoing collaboration. Should the counselling process extend beyond this first meeting, you will receive a contract along with a client information sheet to review at your convenience. During the subsequent session, you will be expected to complete these documents and return them to me, at which point we can address any questions you might have.

"How many sessions can it take to feel better?"
Each individual possesses distinct qualities and characteristics. I do not urge you to accelerate your progress; rather, everything unfolds at your own pace. This may involve addressing immediate concerns that can reveal more profound, underlying issues. My responsibility is to foster this deeper understanding, allowing you, as the client, to maintain control over the subject matter. This approach provides you with the opportunity to delve deeper and push your boundaries in pursuit of your objectives.

"Can you advise me what to do?"
As a Person-Centred Counsellor, my role is not to steer you towards what I perceive as beneficial objectives. Instead, I am here to support you in identifying your own goals, rooted in your unique experiences. My focus is on assisting you in progressing towards the goals you select for yourself, as well as helping you formulate personal objectives and encouraging the development of your own perspectives on various situations. Ultimately, I have faith in your abilities and trust in your journey, which will guide my approach. 

"How do I know what therapist to go with?"
It is recommended to explore various therapists in order to identify the most suitable one for your needs. Assess your feelings during conversations with each counsellor, paying attention to whom you feel a stronger connection with and who makes you feel the most at ease. Establishing a sense of confidence and comfort with your therapist is crucial for effectively navigating your personal narrative.

"I can't afford to pay the full amount, what shall I do?"

I encourage you to reach out, as I provide discounts for individuals facing financial hardships. I firmly believe that financial constraints should not hinder access to support. Once our sessions commence, should you encounter any challenges, please feel free to communicate this with me, as I offer a sliding scale for fees.

​"What services do you offer?"

I provide sessions for individuals, couples, as well as children and adolescents aged 12 to 18.

"What happens if I need to cancel or miss a session?"

Sessions will be scheduled in collaboration between the client and the counsellor. Should you need to cancel a session for any reason, please inform me as soon as possible. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours' notice will still require full payment. In the event of a missed session, I will reach out to you to determine if you wish to proceed. If I am unable to reach you or receive a response, our agreement will be considered terminated. Additionally, if you arrive late, the session will conclude at the originally scheduled time.

"I am having counselling but I feel worse"

The counseling relationship is designed to be both healing and supportive. As you embark on the journey of self-discovery and deeper understanding, you may encounter emotions that lead you to feel as though your situation is deteriorating rather than improving. Should this occur, it is crucial to communicate these feelings with me so that we can examine them collaboratively. Furthermore, since counseling is inherently a reciprocal process, if you perceive that I am engaging in any actions that you find counterproductive to our therapeutic relationship or the counseling process, or if you have any questions or concerns regarding our collaboration, it is essential to address these matters with me. This will allow us to openly reflect on them as we continue our work together.

"What happens if I want to stop counselling?"
You have the option to conclude our collaboration at any time you desire, or you may notice that the work reaches a natural conclusion. Regardless of the circumstances, it is essential to hold a closing session or sessions to formally bid farewell.

"What happens if I am close to someone you already see?"

It may become necessary to conclude our sessions with clients if a conflict of interest arises during the course of our work together. Should this situation occur, I will inform you as soon as possible and provide you with details of other counselors who may be able to assist you.

"What are the limits of confidentiality?"

As your counsellor, I am committed to upholding the highest standards of confidentiality in accordance with legal requirements and the ethical guidelines set forth by the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). However, there are specific circumstances under which confidentiality may be breached. These include situations where there is a significant risk of harm to yourself or others, instances involving illegal activities or acts of terrorism that necessitate disclosure to comply with the law, and any child protection concerns where a child may be at risk of harm or neglect, which must be reported to the relevant authorities as mandated by the Children Act 1989. Regarding confidentiality and compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), I utilize a coded filing system for session notes and personal data, ensuring that all information is securely stored in a locked filing cabinet within a locked office. Any electronic data is protected by passwords, in line with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) guidelines. Information will be retained for a period of six years, adhering to industry standards. You have the right to request access to all information I hold about you at any time. In the event that I am unable to manage your personal data due to unforeseen circumstances, including my passing, arrangements have been made for a fellow BACP member to reach out to you and inform you of the situation. I will strive to discuss any such matters with you beforehand whenever feasible. Please also refer to the Safeguarding Policy that will be provided to you.

"What happens if I see you outside of the counselling session?"

Should we encounter each other outside of Little Lodge, such as at Tesco, I will refrain from acknowledging you until you make the first move. My greeting will be succinct, merely a brief hello rather than an extended conversation.

"What is the process for record keeping?"

Records are maintained for a duration of six years and are assigned a reference number to ensure confidentiality. If you would like to review your notes, please consult me. In the case of couples counselling, a written request along with consent from all involved parties is required to access the notes.

"What is the process of working with teenagers?"

As the counselor, I will refrain from sharing any information about the client with their parents or guardians, as establishing a trusting relationship with the client is essential. Disclosure will only occur in exceptional situations, such as when there is a risk of harm to the child or from the child. To maintain confidentiality, it is advisable to limit interactions with parents or guardians; therefore, sessions can be scheduled through text or other means directly between the client and myself whenever possible. For comprehensive details regarding the protocols for working with children and young people, please consult the safeguarding policy document.

"Does Little Lodge Counselling have parking?"

Little Lodge Counselling offers parking facilities. There is street parking available directly in front of the lodge.

"Is Little Lodge accessible?"

In terms of accessibility, the lodge is equipped with a ramp for entry. If you have any concerns regarding accessibility, please do not hesitate to reach out for assistance.
 

If you have a question that is not included in the list, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Seeking assistance from another individual can elicit a range of emotions, and I recognise the courage it has taken for you to embark on this journey of self-exploration, particularly in reaching out to me as a new ally in addressing your challenges. A frequent inquiry is, "How can this person assist me?" I can provide a supportive environment grounded in acceptance, where you can openly discuss your issues, analyse them, and reconstruct them in a manner that feels more manageable for you. My hope is that you will progress with a sense of empowerment and control over your life, free from the burdens of these challenges. I will accompany you throughout this process, sharing in these experiences and assuring you that you are not alone. Another common concern when seeking help is, "How can I trust this person?" I want to emphasise that our sessions will remain confidential; my role is not to judge but to offer you support and acceptance. The foundation of my approach is our relationship, fostering trust that will enable you to feel more at ease in articulating your needs. It is essential that you feel secure, as we will be equal partners on this journey together.