What to expect

From our earliest relationships onwards, we develop ways of understanding ourselves, other people and the world around us. These early experiences can influence how we form connections, manage emotions, respond to conflict, experience intimacy and navigate difficulties throughout our lives. Sometimes, patterns that once helped us cope can become unhelpful or leave us feeling stuck, disconnected or misunderstood.

Relational psychotherapy offers a space to explore these experiences and understand how they may be influencing your life and relationships today. A central part of this approach is the therapeutic relationship itself. The relationship between therapist and client is not simply a setting in which therapy takes place; it’s an important part of the therapeutic process. Through developing a relationship built on trust, openness, curiosity and mutual respect, we can begin to notice and explore what happens between us, as well as what happens in your relationships outside the therapy room.

Relational psychotherapy is not about blaming the past or looking for someone to hold responsible. Rather, it is about developing understanding, making connections between past and present experiences, and recognising how these experiences may continue to shape your sense of self and your relationships.

My role is not to tell you who you are or how you should live your life. Instead, I aim to offer a thoughtful, compassionate and non-judgemental space where we can explore your experiences together. I will bring curiosity, honesty and openness to our work, and we will work at a pace that feels manageable for you.

What happens in the first session?

It is completely natural to feel some apprehension, fear, anxiety, or discomfort when considering starting counselling.

Our first session will be an opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have about the process and my way of working. It will also be an opportunity for you to go into more detail about why you’ve decided to come for counselling.

Importantly, the first session is your opportunity to get a sense of whether or not you are comfortable with me and would like to work with me.

If we agree to work together, we will talk through and sign a counselling agreement which states the boundaries of the relationship and clearly lays out both parties responsibilities. Sessions are then held weekly for 50 minutes.

I offer open ended, or time-limited contracts, this can be discussed in our first session.