Frequently Asked Questions

Following the initial phone call or email a counsellor will normally make contact within 3-4 days to set up the appointment session.

Sometimes this may take longer during bank holiday times and if contact via telephone is difficult.

We do not leave personal messages on answerphones but request clients to ring or email asap after a request for counselling, and confirm they wish to start the process. An appointment is often offered within two to three weeks.

If you are unhappy with your counsellor for any reason and wish to complain, then contact the manager as soon as possible. We have a complaints procedure and will respond to any concerns you may have.

We ask that payment is either via internet banking or cheque. Details of Southover Counselling bank account will be sent to you or provided at the first session.

Payment as soon as possible either on the day of the session or within that week. Cash can be accepted but this needs to be placed in an envelope with the date of the session, the amount, and your confidential code the counsellor will give you.

If you are unable to pay for your session or if you wish to discuss a reduction in fees please contact the manager.

Counselling sessions are usually weekly for as long as the counsellor and yourself feel they are needed. Sometimes there is a break in counselling for holidays or a review after 6- 12 weeks to assess progress.

Clients are not given a specific number of sessions at the beginning as each person is unique and the time frame can be variable. Counsellors and clients decide when the counselling is finished. Sometimes there is the option to return to counselling if the client expresses a wish to resume sessions after a longer break.

Normally the first session is a `getting to know you` time to tell your story to the counsellor and decide if you can work together. If either the counsellor or yourself feel this is not the case, you can either cancel any future appointments or request to see another counsellor in the team, via the manager.

A contract is usually signed at the first appointment.

Our counselling room at Church End is upstairs and if for whatever reason you are unable to use stairs then another room downstairs can be booked for your sessions.

Any information on a disability that impacts on your counselling, either through communication, comfort or illness, it would be helpful to inform your counsellor and the manager so adjustments can be made. We aim to provide a safe, comfortable and accessible environment.