What Counselling With Me Is Like

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*A simple guide to help you know what to expect*

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Starting counselling can feel like a big step, especially if you’re not sure what the process looks like. My role is to make things feel safe, supportive and grounded from the very beginning. Here’s an outline of what working together typically involves, so you can walk in feeling prepared and at ease.

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**A Safe, Confidential Space**

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Counselling with me is built on trust, respect and confidentiality. Our sessions are a private space where you can talk freely without judgement. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, stress, trauma, relationship difficulties or simply feeling overwhelmed, I’m here to help you make sense of things in a calm and steady way.

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**Your First Session: Understanding Your Story**

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The first session isn’t about diving deep straight away. It’s about getting to know you. We’ll gently explore:

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* What has brought you to counselling
* What you’re finding difficult at the moment
* What you hope to change or understand
* Any previous experiences with therapy (if you’ve had them)

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This session also gives you a chance to get a feel for my approach, to ask questions, and to make sure we’re a good fit. There’s no pressure to share anything before you’re ready.

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**How We Work Together**

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My approach is warm, clear and practical. During our sessions, you can expect:

A steady, guided pace: We explore what’s going on for you without rushing or overwhelming.
Tools and insights you can use: Where helpful, I bring in psycho-education to help you understand how the mind and body respond to stress, anxiety or trauma.
Space to explore emotions safely: I’ll help you notice patterns, understand your reactions, and see things from new angles.
Collaboration: We decide together what feels most important to work on, and we regularly check in to make sure the sessions continue to meet your needs.

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**What a Typical Session Looks Like**

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Each session usually lasts **50 minutes** and follows a flexible structure:

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1. **Check-in:** How you’ve been since the last session
2. **Focus:** We explore whatever feels most relevant that day
3. **Reflection:** You gain clarity, tools or strategies
4. **Close:** We gently ground the session so you leave feeling settled

Some sessions feel emotional; others feel lighter or more reflective. All are part of the process.

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**What You Don’t Need to Worry About**

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People often come to counselling feeling unsure. You do *not* need to:

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* Have everything figured out
* Know exactly what to say
* Be “ready” to talk about painful experiences
* Perform or make progress every week

Your only job is to show up. I’ll guide the rest.

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**How You Can Expect to Feel**

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Counselling often brings relief, insight and a sense of being understood. At times it may feel challenging—as change usually does—but you will never go through that alone. You will always be supported, steady and in control of the pace.

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**Working Towards Change**

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Over time, counselling helps you:

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* Reduce stress and anxiety
* Understand yourself more deeply
* Heal emotional wounds
* Build healthier coping strategies
* Move towards a calmer, more grounded version of yourself

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My aim is to help you feel empowered, not dependent.

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**If You’re Considering Taking the Next Step**

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Reaching out for support is an act of strength. If you’re ready—or even if you’re simply curious—you’re welcome to book an initial session or ask any questions.

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You don’t have to do this alone. I’m here to help you make sense of things and move forward with clarity and confidence.

 

Nigel Skinner