Starting counselling can feel like stepping into the unknown.
Whether you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or simply curious, this post is here to gently guide you through what to expect.
What is counselling?
Counselling is a confidential space where you can talk through your thoughts, feelings, and experiences with someone trained to listen with empathy and care. It’s not about being told what to do, or ‘fixing’ you, it’s about exploring what’s going on for you and supporting you to find your own path forward. In the sessions I offer, you lead with what you wish to talk about, and we take the sessions at your own pace. Everyone is different and that’s okay. I offer a space where I’m non-judgemental and accepting of your individuality or uniqueness as a person.
Do I need to be in crisis?
Not at all. People come to counselling for many reasons: anxiety, low mood, relationship struggles, loss, trauma, identity questions, or simply a feeling of being stuck. You don’t have to have all the answers or even know exactly what’s wrong. You might just feel that something isn’t quite right but can’t quite put your finger on it. We can explore whatever brings you to therapy together in a safe and confidential space.
What’s it like to work with me?
As a humanistic counsellor, I believe that you are the expert in your own life. I believe that everyone has the capacity for growth. I empower people through the work we do together to make changes in their life that they choose to make, at their own pace, in a way that feels right for them.
I hold great importance in building a trusting relationship as we work together. Therefore, it’s really important that when you come to Creatively Dreaming Therapy for counselling or hypnotherapy, you feel comfortable with working with me. This can be a gentle and gradual process and that’s okay. Therapeutic work takes time to unfurl whatever is happening below the surface. My role is to offer warmth, honesty, and compassion as we explore things together. I work at your pace, gently and respectfully.
What happens in a session?
Sessions usually last 50 minutes and take place weekly. You’re free to bring whatever is on your mind. Over time, the process can help you feel lighter, clearer, and more in tune with yourself. Sometimes it might be about understanding a situation or experience or exploring your emotions.
I offer a variety of tools to work through whatever you need to. These might include: talking therapy, creative tools including imagery, sand tray work, clay, using nature, journalling or visualisation. If you would like some sessions of hypnotherapy interspersed with talking or craetively working, then I offer this too.
Sessions are tailored to your own individual needs and we can discuss this together when we first meet, whether that’s over the phone, via online video or in-person.
Is counselling right for me?
It’s okay to be unsure. The first step is often a simple conversation. If you’re wondering whether counselling might be helpful, you’re very welcome to get in touch. I offer a free 15 minute intial chat where there’s no obligation for you to attend. You might just have questions and want to find out if therapy is for you. That’s okay and understand how tough it can be to make that first step or choose a therapist. I want you to feel safe, comfortable and informed about your choice, so I’m happy to chat without any pressure.
If you’re thinking about counselling, I offer a warm, no-pressure initial chat to explore whether we might be a good fit.
You’re not alone. Simply get in touch via my Contact Page.
