Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

What happens next?

Answer

If you would like to arrange a free initial phone consultation please get in touch. This will typically last between 15-20 minutes. We will discuss your needs, I can answer any questions you may have and if we decide to work together we can arrange our first session. You can contact me to book your first session without the free consultation if you would prefer.

Question 2

How much is a session?

Answer

£60 for a 50 minute face to face session, online or telephone session. I offer limited discounts for student and people on low incomes.

Question 3

When and how do I pay for a session?

Answer

Please make payment at least 48 hours in advance of your session to guarantee the booking. Unfortunately, if payment isn't received 48 hours prior to a session the appointment will be cancelled. I accept bank transfers and cash as payment options.

Question 4

What if I need to cancel a session?

Answer

I understand that there may be times when a session has to be cancelled and I will aim to be flexible around this, but I do ask for a notice period of 48 hours otherwise the full session fee will be chargeable.

Question 5

What happens in the first session?

Answer

The first session is an initial assessment of what has brought you to counselling. There is an assessment form (used to learn more about you and what is bringing you to counselling) to be completed but I can email you the form before the session so that we can save some time in our first session. We will also talk about how we will work together and how I can support you. If we both agree to continue working together there is an therapeutic agreement that I will go over with you and from there we can arrange our next session.

Question 6

Are the sessions confidential?

Answer

Yes everything you say in the session is confidential except in the situation where you or someone else is in danger. We will talk more about confidentiality in our first session.

Question 7

How often will we have sessions?

Answer

Sessions will normally take place weekly and can usually last from 6 weeks to over a year.

Question 8

Where are you based?

Answer

I am mainly based in EN5, High Barnet as well as the following locations, please contact me for availability. Aashna Counselling & Psychotherapy, 1 Castle Mews, North Finchley, London N12 9EH. This location has disability access. Finchley Therapy Practice, 294-296 Nether Street, Finchley, London N3 1RJ

Question 9

When will I start to see change?

Answer

This varies from one person to another. The process of counselling takes time and it also depends on a factors such as what the issue/difficulty is and the amount of effort and commitment you put into our sessions. I have worked with people where they feel a relief and release after a few sessions and for others it can take longer.

Question 10

Can I end the sessions whenever I want?

Answer

Yes it is totally up to you. If you would like to end your counselling sessions I would encourage that you please let me know in advance if possible so that we can work towards an ending.