What to Expect with Willow & Olive Counselling
What to Expect
What to Expect
Beginning counselling can feel like a big step, and it is completely natural to feel nervous, uncertain or unsure of what to expect. I offer a free introductory telephone conversation, providing an opportunity for us to discuss what brings you to counselling, answer any questions you may have, and decide whether working together feels right for you.
My aim is to provide a welcoming and confidential space where you can feel comfortable and can talk openly, without fear of being judged. Counselling offers an opportunity to explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences at your own pace, in a way that feels right for you.
A calm and welcoming space for you to feel comfortable and supported.
Your First Session
Our first session is an opportunity for us to get to know one another and begin exploring what has brought you to counselling. A selection of complimentary hot and cold drinks is available for clients attending in person, helping you to feel comfortable and settled before we begin.
We will start by discussing the counselling process, giving you an opportunity to ask any further questions before signing the client–counsellor agreement and complete a brief initial assessment together. This gives us an opportunity to discuss any concerns you may have, relevant background information, the support you are looking for and what you hope to gain from our work together.
There is no pressure to share everything, and you are free to share as much or as little as you wish, moving at a pace that feels comfortable for you.
Beginning Couples Counselling
Couples counselling begins with a three-step assessment process. Your first appointment brings you together for an initial joint assessment to explore your relationship, discuss what you both hope to achieve and consider how we will work together.
Each partner then attends a separate individual assessment, giving you each space to speak openly and privately about your experiences, concerns and hopes for counselling. These assessments help me develop a fuller understanding of both perspectives and assess safety.
Working Together
Every person and relationship is unique. I use an integrative approach, drawing on a range of therapeutic perspectives to tailor counselling to your needs, experiences and goals.
In individual counselling, we focus on what feels important to you. In couples work, we make space for both partners’ perspectives, explore the patterns between you and agree shared goals for our work together.
The pace and focus of sessions are agreed collaboratively and reviewed as our work develops.
Some topics clients wish to explore are:
Anxiety and Stress
Low Mood or Depression
Bereavement and Loss
Relationship difficulties
Trust and rebuilding connections
Communication difficulties and reoccurring conflict
Self-esteem and Confidence
Life Transitions and Change
PTSD
Personal Growth and Self-understanding
Behavioural Patterns
Abuse
Trauma
Separation and Divorce
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Addictions
Together, we can explore whatever you wish to bring, with care and understanding, at a pace that feels safe for you.
Confidentiality
Everything discussed during sessions is treated with the utmost respect and confidentiality. There are a small number of legal and ethical exceptions to confidentiality, such as safeguarding a child or vulnerable adult, which will be explained fully when we discuss the counselling agreement at the start of our work together.
Should any confidentiality concerns arise, these will always be discussed with you in session beforehand wherever possible.
A Safe and Supportive Space
My role is not to judge or advise you what to do; instead, I will support you in gaining a deeper understanding of yourself, your experiences, behaviours and the choices available to you, so you can make informed decisions in your life that feel right for you.
Counselling can be one of the most enriching experiences, helping you to develop greater self-awareness, resilience and confidence as you make sense of past experiences that can help you navigate life’s challenges in the here and now.
Moving Forward
Some people attend counselling for a short period to work through a specific difficulty, while others choose longer-term support. There is no right or wrong way to explore counselling, and we will regularly review how our work is progressing, ensuring that counselling continues to meet your needs and goals.
Whatever brings you here, you will be met with empathy, understanding and care.
A Quiet Space to Pause
Taking the First Step
Taking the first step can feel daunting, but you don’t have to have everything figured out before getting in touch. I’m happy to answer any questions you may have or chat about your own personal expectations of counselling, whenever you feel ready.
If you would prefer, you’re also welcome to get in touch by email, telephone, Facebook or Instagram using the details in the contact section.