FAQ

What kind of counsellor are you?

I am a person-centred therapist. This type of counselling was founded by Carl Rogers in the 1950s and remains one of the most well known therapeutic approaches today. The person-centred approach involves listening to you and being present with you, whilst gaining a deep understanding of what it’s like being you. For me, there has always been something magical about the possibilities within the person-centred approach and now having experienced it from all angles, my belief in this process has only grown and strengthened.

What happens in therapy sessions?

During the first session, we will discuss what brought you here and there will be a wee bit of admin to do. We will go over things like confidentiality, contracting of sessions and my policies. We can also use the first session to discuss expectations or worries you may have about therapy. Moving forward from there, there is no homework between sessions and there is nothing to prepare in advance. I simply ask that you bring yourself and the session can take the direction it needs to.

What are your qualifications?

I trained with Persona Development & Training, one of Scotland's leading providers of psychotherapy training and one of the most robust person centred courses available. I hold a Post Graduate Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy. I am a member of BACP and adhere to their ethical framework.

I have been active in the mental health field for my entire adult life. I currently hold a part time position within a West Lothian charity specialising in suicide prevention and mental health support. I have experience working with a wide range of issues, including but not limited to:

·       Addiction

·       Anxiety

·       Bullying

·       Depression

·       Domestic Abuse

·       Employment Difficulties

·       Gender Identity and LGBTQ+

·       Grief and Bereavement

·       Health and disabilities

·       Life Crisis

·       Loneliness

·       Low Mood

·       Marriage Problems

·       Motherhood and Parenting

·       Neurodiversity

·       Relationships

·       School and Academic Worries

·       Self-Harm

·       Stress

·       Suicidal Thoughts and Ideation

I meet fortnightly with a clinical supervisor who ensures that my work with clients remains safe and ethical. I attend regular CPD training to ensure that my knowledge is refreshed and up to date.

Who do you work with?

Adults, children and young people over the age of 11.

How do I contact you?

I am available to email. I aim to get back to you within 48hrs of your enquiry, unless you receive an out of office notification detailing otherwise. I offer a short 15 minute telephone call if you wanted to see if we would be a good fit before booking a session. This call would be booked in advance and gives you an opportunity to hear my voice and get a feel for what having me as a counsellor might be like. You can email me at info.jwcounselling@gmail.com

How much does counselling cost?

My fee is £55 for each 50 minute in-person session. This can be paid by bank transfer or by cash. 

Where does counselling take place?

I currently offer in person sessions at my office in The Alba Centre, Livingston, West Lothian on Wednesday mornings.

What if I need help right now?

I am available to work through whatever it is you’re worried about during our scheduled session times. I am not available out with these times as I am not a crisis service. If you are at crisis point, please contact emergency services on 999. There is also 24/7 help available from Samaritans on 116 123, or jo@samaritans.org. Or you can text SHOUT to 85258 for free, 24/7 confidential mental health support over text