Phillipa Haverly

Monday-Fridays

Life can be really complex and often overwhelming, leaving us at times feeling isolated and alone, even when we are surrounded by people. As such there might be many different reasons why people come into counselling. Sometimes the issues we experience have clear causes and explanations and at other times it might feel less obvious and harder therefore to identify. What I would hope to offer you is a place that feels safe, supportive and confidential where you are able to explore whatever it is for you personally that you want to address without fear of judgement and criticism.

As a counsellor I have considerable experience working with many types of abuse, trauma and relationship issues. Ultimately I have learned over the years that 'one size fits all' does not work with counselling and therefore counselling needs to be integrative. So in a nutshell this means I will work therapeutically in the way that is best suited to you and your needs.

Many of the clients I have worked with over the years have described previous negative experiences of counselling or anxiety and fear at not knowing what to expect of therapy.  Please feel reassured that it is very important to me that you feel comfortable and safe and if you yourself have any similar concerns please do not hesitate to let me know during our initial call so I can do everything I can to address your concerns and provide you with a positive therapeutic experience.

I offer an initial informal 20 minute telephone call (or video call on request) for us to decide whether we can work together. During the call I will ask you  to briefly summarise any areas you would like to cover working with me and let me know a little bit about yourself. I also invite you to ask me anything you feel you would like to know about the way I work or my work background and/or qualifications. There is no charge for this initial conversation.

If you decide that you would like to work with me I will send you a copy of my contract and other relevant paperwork to review before our first session. This will provide you any information that you might wish to consider before moving forward with me. During our first session we will discuss the contract before signing it together. I always reassure my clients that if at any time you do not feel that I am what you are needing as a counsellor, that there is no obligation to stay with me. It is a very personal choice as to who we all feel we can be comfortable working with and if for any reason I am not right for you I will support you to find someone else.

Our sessions will be 60 minutes long and will take place weekly unless previously arranged. I request payment in advance on the day of our session unless previously agreed. I also require sessions to be cancelled with 24 hours notice and if not payment is required.