Frequently Asked Questions

Beginning counselling can feel like a significant step. Here are answers to some of the questions you may have.

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How do I know if counselling is right for me?

You do not need to be in crisis to seek counselling. It may be helpful if something is affecting your emotional well-being, relationships or daily life, or if you would like a confidential space to understand yourself more clearly.

Our free 15-minute consultation can help you decide whether counselling feels right for you.

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What can I talk about?

You can talk about anything that feels important to you, including your thoughts, feelings, relationships, past experiences, current challenges or hopes for the future.​Your counsellor will listen without judgement and support you at a pace that feels comfortable.

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What happens during the first session?

Your counsellor will spend time getting to know you and understanding what has brought you to counselling.

You may discuss your current concerns, relevant experiences and what you hope to gain from therapy. You will also have an opportunity to ask questions and consider how you and your counsellor might work together.

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How do I know if a counsellor is right for me?

You should feel heard, respected and accepted by your counsellor. Building trust can take time, but you should feel reasonably comfortable speaking with them.

The initial consultation and first session can help you decide whether their approach feels suitable for you.

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Is counselling confidential?

What you share is treated confidentially. Counsellors also attend clinical supervision to support safe and ethical practice.

There may be circumstances where confidentiality must be broken, such as when there is a serious risk of harm or disclosure is legally required. Your counsellor will explain confidentiality and its limits before you begin.

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How long are sessions, and how many will I need?

Session lengths vary depending on the type of counselling you receive. The number of sessions will depend on your needs, circumstances and goals.

We offer both short-term and open-ended counselling, with regular opportunities to review your progress.

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Where can counselling take place?

Depending on the service, counselling is available:

• In person in Harrow

• Online

• By telephone

• Outdoors through walk and talk therapy

We can discuss which option feels most comfortable and accessible for you.

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How does couples counselling work?

We offer conjoint couples counselling, where both partners work with two counsellors at the same time.

The counsellors do not take sides or tell you what decisions to make. They support both partners in communicating more openly, understanding relationship patterns and working towards shared goals.

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What are your fees, and how do I book?

Please visit our Fees & Information page for current prices, appointment availability and payment details.

You can book by telephone, email or through our website enquiry form. We also offer a free 15-minute initial consultation.

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What is your cancellation policy?

We require at least 48 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or rearrange a session. The full session fee may be charged when less than 48 hours’ notice is given or an appointment is missed.​

 

Is Self Love Counselling a crisis service?

No. We are not an emergency or crisis service and may not be able to respond immediately.

If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E department.

If you need someone to talk to, you can call Samaritans free at any time on 116 123.

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Still have questions?

Please contact us if your question has not been answered or if you would like to arrange your free 15-minute consultation.