Frequently Asked Questions

 Therapeutic Harbour is a counselling and psychotherapy practice offering individual therapy for adults experiencing emotional and psychological difficulties such as trauma, anxiety, low self-esteem, grief, relationship difficulties and the effects of abuse. Sessions are available online across the UK and in-person across Leicester and Leicestershire. 

Counselling and psychotherapy can both provide a safe and confidential space to explore thoughts, feelings, experiences and difficulties in your life. The terms are sometimes used interchangeably, although psychotherapy may involve exploring deeper or longer-standing patterns and experiences.

As a counsellor and psychotherapist, I draw on different therapeutic approaches and tailor the work to your individual needs, goals and circumstances.

 Yes, I offer a free 15-minute initial consultation.

This is a relaxed, informal conversation where you can ask questions, talk about what has brought you to counselling, and explore whether working together feels like the right fit for you.

Your first counselling session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and begin understanding what has brought you to therapy. We will talk about what has been happening for you, what you would like support with, and what you hope to gain from counselling.

There is no pressure to share anything you do not feel ready to talk about. You can go at your own pace, and we will focus on what feels most important and manageable for you.

We will also go through important practical information, including how sessions work, confidentiality, and we will review and sign a counselling agreement (contract) together before we begin working. This ensures everything is clear and agreed from the start.

Yes. Counselling is confidential. Everything you share is treated with respect and privacy, and any limits to confidentiality will be explained before we begin working together.

 It is normal to feel unsure about starting therapy. Counselling may be helpful if you are feeling overwhelmed, struggling with past experiences, or finding it difficult to cope emotionally. The initial consultation can help you decide if it feels right for you. 

Everyone’s experience of therapy is different. Some people find a small number of sessions helpful for a specific issue, while others prefer longer-term counselling to explore deeper patterns and experiences.

We will regularly review your progress together and decide what feels most helpful for you.

I currently work with adults and young people aged 16 and over.

If you are under 16, I recommend seeking a counsellor who specialises in working with children and adolescents, as they will be best placed to offer appropriate support.

No. You do not need a diagnosis to access counselling. Many people seek therapy for anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, trauma, grief or simply because they are finding things difficult.

 I offer in-person counselling in Leicester, Narborough and Lutterworth, as well as online counselling throughout the UK. 

Payment is made in advance of each session.

Online sessions are paid via bank transfer. For in-person sessions, payment can also be made by bank transfer or cash.

Online counselling can be just as effective as face-to-face therapy for many people. It offers flexibility and accessibility while still providing a safe and confidential therapeutic space. 

Walk and Talk Therapy is a form of counselling that takes place outdoors while walking in an agreed location. It offers the same therapeutic support as traditional counselling while providing the opportunity to benefit from being in a natural environment.

 Yes. I offer Walk and Talk Therapy for adults aged 16+ across Leicester and Leicestershire. Suitable locations are discussed and agreed in advance to ensure sessions are safe, comfortable and appropriate for your needs. 

No. Walk and Talk Therapy is not about exercise or fitness. Sessions take place at a pace that feels comfortable for you, and suitable routes are chosen based on your individual needs and abilities.

If weather conditions make an outdoor session unsuitable, we will discuss alternative arrangements. Depending on the circumstances, this may include moving the session online or rearranging for another time.

Walk and Talk Therapy can be a helpful option for many people, but it may not be suitable for everyone. During the initial consultation, we can discuss your circumstances and determine whether this approach is appropriate for you.

I offer Walk and Talk Therapy across Leicester and Leicestershire in suitable outdoor locations. The location will be agreed in advance, taking into account accessibility, comfort, privacy and your individual needs.

We will discuss any practical considerations that may affect your sessions, including accessibility needs, health considerations, allergies, emergency contact details, confidentiality, and any questions you may have about the process.

Before arranging your first Walk and Talk Therapy session, we will have a free 20-minute telephone or video consultation. This gives us an opportunity to discuss your needs, complete the necessary assessment and paperwork, and decide whether Walk and Talk Therapy is the right approach for you.