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FAQ's
What does a counselling session look like?
Counselling sessions are a 50 minute appointment, at the same time and place each week or fortnightly. These can be face to face in person in a therapy space, or online using zoom or google meet. It's a confidential and judgement free conversation, where you can explore thoughts and feelings. I will listen and ask questions and work to build a trusting relationship. In the first session we will complete some forms regarding your contact details and ask what's motivated you to have counselling.
What is a discovery call? is it optional?
A discovery call is a free call either by phone or online for 20 minutes, at an agreed time. It's an opportunity to have a conversation and ask questions and see whether counselling is for you. I can introduce myself and we can discuss whether I'm the the right counsellor for you. It's completely optional I offer it as a taster before you commit to booking as approaching counselling especially for the first time can be daunting.
How do I arrange an appointment?
How long will counselling take?
The amount of counselling depends on the individual and what they want to explore. I would recommend to have a minimum 6 sessions of weekly counselling and then decide whether you want to continue or move to fortnightly sessions.
Consistent weekly sessions are beneficial for building rapport. In my experience I have worked with a range from 3 months to 18 months depending on the indivdual's needs.
Where do you work face to face?
I use therapy space at the White House Health and Wellness Centre in Epsom, Surrey.
Their website has the details of the location and directions. They don't deal with individual bookings so appointments have to be arranged with me directly via email.
I've had counselling before. How is what you do different?
Please contact me via email vanessa@vanessaralphtherapy.co.uk
Or using the form on the contact page.
I work Tuesday to Friday and appointments are between the hours of 10am to 2pm weekdays and school term time due to caring responsibilities.
How do I pay?
Once we have agreed an appointment I will send you an invoice with my BACS details on. Payment needs to be before the session. If a payment is missed or a session goes unpaid then the following session can't take place.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you need to cancel an agreed appointment then I require a minimum of 24 hours notice. If I receive less than 24 hours then you will still be invoiced for the cancelled session. If I need to cancel the session then you won't be charged. If you've already paid I need to cancel the session you will be refunded.
I offer depth oriented therapy for adults who are seeking more than symptom management. I focus on understanding the emotional patterns formed by life experiences. This involves a reflective process to support changes.
