FAQs
I haven't had therapy before. What happens in the first session?
Firstly, well done for giving yourself the chance to seek the support you deserve.
Looking through directory listings and Instagram feeds to find the right 'match' can be daunting.
Our first session is the beginning of our collaborative relationship. I will invite you to tell me more about what brings you to therapy and listen to your story and life experiences. There are no expectations to share anything you don't feel comfortable with at this point. The first session provides the opportunity for us to get a sense of what your hopes are for therapy and how I can best support you going forward.
You are welcome to ask as many questions as you would like and if they don't come up during the session, please do not hesitate to contact me afterwards. I am happy to address any questions or concerns.
How many sessions will I need?
Everyone's needs are different so the number of sessions required will depend on your individual circumstances and needs. I offer time-limited (12 sessions) and open-ended psychotherapy.
We will review your progress after 6 weeks to ensure you are feeling understood and supported in your therapeutic process. I encourage all my clients to give feedback whenever it suits them (in session or via email) as it helps us stay on the same page and ensure they are getting the most out of their sessions.
If you are facing financial difficulties and have limited funds for therapy, please let me know.
We can discuss how to make the most of the time available.
Is what I share in our sessions kept private?
What you share in our sessions is kept private and confidential with a few exceptions. If you or another person is at risk of serious harm, or where drug trafficking, money laundering or acts of terrorism are disclosed, I am legally bound to share this information with the relevant services.
You are welcome to ask me more about this information in our sessions.
I think I'm ready to end therapy. How do I know for sure?
I invite you to discuss this with me in our sessions. We can reflect on your process, whether your goals and hopes for therapy have been fulfilled, any safety concerns and how to look after yourself afterwards.
Can I contact you outside of my session time?
You can contact me via email if the need arises. Please email me at admin@marleguicounselling.com.
I will endeavour to reply to you within 48 hours (excluding weekends).
Please bear in mind that I do not check my emails between Fridays - Sundays or over holiday periods.
I'm in crisis and don't know what to do. Can you help me?
I am not a crisis service and I am unable to provide 24/7 support.
Please have a look through the helpful resources I have curated under the 'resources' tab.
If you feel at immediate risk of harm, please seek help by calling 999 or attend your local A&E department. Alternatively you can call the Samaritans on 116 123 or text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258.
You can also create a personal safety plan here.