What is Counselling and Psychotherapy?

Counselling and Psychotherapy simply put is ‘talking therapy’. Talking therapy is where you can discuss and explore any distress, issues or concerns you may be experiencing. You will be supported by a qualified experienced therapist who offers a safe and confidential place enabling you to discover more about yourself and bring about a positive change.

Do I need a Referral?

No you do not, you can self refer just by contacting us. We do take GP referrals, and other agency referrals.

Do I need it?

I could explain to you many of the benefits of having therapy, but in all honestly it is really up to you! Only you will know if you are ready, and fully committed to wanting help. But it is worth giving it a try, you have nothing to lose and maybe a lot to gain. Looking after your mental health is as important as looking after your physical health.

We will be honest with you and if we feel that you need something else, we will always direct you to another mental health provider or another relevant service.

Will therapy work?

We don’t have a magic wand, really (we wish we did) but we do have passion and a genuine desire to help. We can not guarantee that therapy will work for you, as obviously this depends on many factors, that may be out of our control. But that is not to say it will not benefit you in many ways.

How much is it?

The cost of each session is £50.00 for an adult and teenager.

Online and telephone sessions are the same price.

For all students we charge £35.00.
We understand how expensive your education is and have discounted this fee.

We also offer a 10% discounts on block bookings of six - if paid in advance.

We reserve sessions for clients on a lower income. We totally appreciate that not all can afford our full fee, so we can work on a sliding scale dependent on income. Please call us to discuss this further.

We will do our best to avoid turning anyone away simply due to finances, so please contact us to discuss all options.

Is it confidential?

Do not worry, what ever you say to us in your sessions is totally confidential, unless you inform us that you are a serious risk of harm to yourself or another, then we will contact the relevant services. We will, however, if possible discuss this with you first.

We comply fully with GDPR procedures. Any information we hold regarding you, including your notes and personal information is securely held. Please see our privacy policy. A full copy will be given to you on your first appointment for you to review and sign.

What if I can’t make it?

We appreciate that sometimes you will need to cancel a session. All we ask is 24 hours notice. Unfortunately, if this is not adhered to a full charge will be due.

How long are the sessions?

Each appointment is generally 50 mins. Unless otherwise agreed.
Times and days are to also be mutually agreed. We do not know how many sessions you may need. For example, you may have a specific issue you would like to focus on in your therapy sessions, or you may want to discuss your thoughts and feelings with out a specific focus or direction. Either way, we will always carry our regular reviews.

We offer both long term and short term therapy

If you are booked in for workshops, group therapy or focusing sessions, these timings may vary, you will be given the full details beforehand.

What do we do in the first session?

Firstly, let me reassure you that we understand you may be feeling apprehensive and a little fearful, the first session is for us to get to know each other, and for us to explain our services.
We fill out the paperwork and then we will literally start from there, ( let’s see where we go). Don’t worry, we will always make it our mission to make you feel comfortable and at ease with us.

Will you give me homework?

In general no, but we may give you certain links, psycho educational handouts or resources to look at in between sessions. We may also ask you to complete certain forms or sheets if we are working towards a particular goal or task. It really depends on your way of working and if you feel other resources will enhance your mental well-being and overall your sense of self.

Do you offer evenings and weekends?

Yes, we do! We appreciate that we all have busy lives, not everyone can attend day time sessions or weekdays, so for your convenience and choice, we offer both evenings and Saturdays.

What if it’s not for me?

You are under no obligation to stay in therapy. We totally understand that sometimes it is just not the right time or right fit? In this instance, the mandatory 24 hours cancellation will apply. However, we do ask that you contact us as soon as possible if you decide to finish. That way we can offer the appointment time to another.

Where are you?

Our office is located in Aberdeen in the City Centre just off Union Street (Golden Square). This provides you with easy transport links.

However, if getting to us is an issue or concern we also offer online or telephone therapy.

Are you qualified?

We are fully qualified in counselling at a post graduate diploma level. We have extra training in children and young people, as well as on going CPD for professional development. For more info - please see our meet the team page.

What can you help with?

We offer counselling and psychotherapy for issues including; Addictions and addiction related issues, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Relationship issues, Stress, Grief and loss, Anger issues, Abuse, Emotional distress, Behavioural issues and Neurodiversity. Couples.