Q: Why do I need therapy?
A: There are many reasons why people come to therapy the common theme being that a individual is suffering and struggling to come to terms with what they are experiencing. Talking to a trained professional may help you to understand what is happening to you and to eventually relieve your suffering and move forward with your life.

Q: What can I expect in a session?
A: You will be encouraged to identify and share your thoughts, experiences and feelings in a safe environment. For many people it may be the first time they have ever shared what is happening for them. It can be an enormous relief to share our struggles with another human being in a non-judgmental supportive environment; this on its own can be transforming. As the old adage says a problem shared is a problem halved. You will also be encouraged to explore past experiences as these may be impacting on you in the present. Together we will identify an individual plan to support you to open up, explore and get to know yourself better. Gradually you will learn to manage your emotions and responses to life events in a positive way as you identify your own inner resources to help you make positive choices to greater self-awareness and inner harmony.

Q: What is the difference between psychotherapy and counselling?
A: In essence they are the same and the words are used interchangeably. It depends upon the nature of your issues and challenges and what you want to achieve from therapy. Usually counselling is for a shorter period of time, around six sessions. Whilst in psychotherapy we explore much deeper and the process is longer. Ultimately the decision on the number of sessions is yours. We will undertake regular reviews the first one being at six weeks.

Q: How long does a session last?
A: A session lasts for one hour and is usually weekly at the same time each week. If you are late the session will still finish at the same time.

Q What about confidentiality?
A: I abide by the BACP code of ethics, which has strict standards regarding confidentiality.

Q: How much does it cost?
A: Each session costs £55.00 and can be made by cash or BACS.

Q: When are you available?
A: I can be very flexible and will endeavor to find a slot that meets your needs. I work weekdays between 9am -7pm and Saturday morning.

Q: How do I know if you are the right therapist for me?
A: Successful therapy is dependent upon the quality of the relationship between client and therapist so I understand how important it is to find the right therapist for you. You may have already got a sense from looking at my website, I always say trust your gut instincts. If you decide to see me you are able to stop the sessions at any time. I will endeavor to support you in finding further support or another therapist as appropriate.

Q: Where is your practice?
A: I work from my home in Lee on the Solent. There is ample parking outside the house.

Q: How can I find out more about counselling and Psychosynthesis?
A: The BACP and UKCP provide general information about counselling and psychotherapy; the Counselling Directory is also a good source of information. For further information about Psychosynthesis a good place to start is the Psychosynthesis Institute.

If you have any further questions please feel free to give me a ring on 0754 5503974 or email jane@solentcounselling.com.

Covering Lee on the Solent, Gosport, Fareham, Portsmouth, Locksheath, Southampton.