Frequently Asked Questions

Below are our most frequently asked questions. If you have any other questions, get in touch with us and we’ll answer your questions.

What is counselling?

Counselling offers a safe, confidential space for you to talk openly about your problems and feelings. It enables you to make better sense of those things which you find painful or confusing.

Is counselling an instant cure?

It normally takes a few sessions for you to notice changes and improvements in your life. Sometimes counselling can be quite difficult at the beginning, but we will work closely with you so that you are in a safe place by the end of your session.

Does counselling work for everyone?

Different people will get different results from their counselling. Recent studies from the International Centre for Clinical Excellence (ICCE) showed that 80% of clients in counselling ended up in a better place than those who didn’t seek any help.

How much does it cost?

For individual counselling our sessions are £55 per session; for relationship counselling, our fees are £60 and family therapy fees are £70 per session.  Individual sessions with our Assistant Associate Counsellor is £40.  All sessions last for 50 minutes.

Some concessionary rates are available for students and those on benefits.

Your GP may be able to access free counselling on your behalf if that is what you require.

What type of counselling do you provide?

Counselling comes in many different ‘flavours’ or theoretical approaches.  The counsellors at Hazelwood are integrative counsellors which mean they blend these ‘flavours’ together, specifically tailoring the approach for each client.

Research by the International Centre for Clinical Excellence (ICCE) has found that the type of counselling clients receive makes the smallest contribution to a successful outcome.

Other things, in particular the relationship you develop with your counsellor, have a much greater impact.

How do I choose the right counsellor?

The following are questions to ask a counsellor in your search for the right counsellor for you. These questions are recommended by the National Counselling Society.

Your counsellor will discuss these kinds of things with you so you are very clear about how you will work together.

  • How many sessions will I need?
  • How much will counselling cost?
  • What happens if I miss a session?
  • Is it confidential?
  • What happens at the first session?

For more useful questions, please go to the National Counselling Society