Fees & FAQ’s
What type of counselling do you offer?
I am a pluralistically trained counsellor, meaning I draw from various counselling theories, including person-centred counselling and CBT, to tailor the approach to your needs. I’ve also taken additional qualifications and CPD that enable me to work with adults and children. My initial training was face to face and online, I have since added working creatively, using art, sand-tray therapy, and puppets, among other techniques. I offer Walk and Talk Therapy as well, allowing us to take our sessions outdoors if that suits you.
I’M LOOKING FOR COUNSELLING FOR MY CHILD – WILL I HAVE TO ATTEND WITH THEM?
This depends on your child’s age and how far along we are in their counselling journey. If your child is at senior school, they can attend the first session alone, or you may attend with them. For younger children, I request that we meet together for the first session or have a parent session before their counselling begins, to discuss their situation before I carry out an assessment with them and create a treatment plan. I hold an advanced DBS and have experience working with children and young people aged 4 to 24.
WILL YOU LET ME KNOW WHAT YOU DISCUSS WITH MY CHILD IN THEIR SESSION?
My confidentiality agreement is with your child or young person (CYP). I adhere to usual safeguarding practices, meaning I will only break confidentiality in specific situations. I’ll explain this fully if you choose to book your child in for counselling.
I’M NOT AT ALL CREATIVE, DO I HAVE TO PARTICIPATE IN CREATIVE ACTIVITIES?
Not at all! Creativity can be a valuable part of counselling, but it’s entirely optional. Creative techniques, such as art or sand-tray therapy, can help you process emotions and gain new perspectives, but you are always in control of how sessions proceed. If you prefer to talk without these techniques, that’s perfectly fine too.
IS COUNSELLING RIGHT FOR ME?
Our discovery call will give you the opportunity to share what’s bringing you to counselling and discuss your goals. This will help you decide if counselling is right for you and if we are a good fit.
WILL COUNSELLING HELP ME?
Counselling, also known as talking therapy or psychotherapy, can help in many ways. It can support you in managing difficult emotions, setting goals, exploring behaviours, and finding new perspectives. Whether you’re dealing with low self-esteem, anxiety, or looking for solutions to life’s challenges, counselling can help you explore and find answers within yourself.
WHAT SORT OF ISSUES CAN COUNSELLING HELP WITH?
Counselling can support you in dealing with difficult life events such as unemployment, bereavement, work-related stress, and relationship challenges. It can also help with mental health conditions like depression or anxiety, Counselling can help you make more sense of your life and guide you toward meaningful change.
HOW CAN I GET THE MOST FROM MY THERAPY SESSIONS?
Some clients find journaling helpful between sessions. Whether it’s a few bullet points or a deeper reflection, it can enhance self-awareness. If something isn’t working in therapy, don’t hesitate to bring it up—we can always adjust the approach to best suit your needs.
IS COUNSELLING CONFIDENTIAL?
Yes, all sessions are confidential, unless there is a risk of harm to yourself or others. We’ll go over this in more detail during our first session.
WHAT WILL I TALK ABOUT?
You control the content of our sessions. You can bring up whatever is on your mind, and you’ll never be pressured to discuss something you’re not ready for. My role is to listen attentively and non-judgmentally, reflecting back and helping you explore your thoughts.
CAN I TALK ABOUT ANYTHING?
Absolutely. I provide a confidential, non-judgmental space where you can explore anything that’s troubling you, no matter how “bad” or uncomfortable it may feel. We’ll progress at your pace.
CAN I HAVE AN EVENING OR WEEKEND SESSION?
Yes, I offer a limited number of weekend and evening sessions. Please inquire during our discovery call for current availability.
HOW DO I BOOK A SESSION?
You can book a session by emailing me at lorraine@lorrainesmith.co.uk or texting 07973307092.
SHOULD I BOOK A 55-MINUTE OR 90-MINUTE SESSION?
The 50-minute sessions provide time for a focused conversation. The 90-minute sessions allow for the integration of relaxation techniques such as reiki or Indian head massage alongside counselling, offering a more holistic experience.
DO YOU OFFER A FREE INTRODUCTORY CALL?
Yes, I offer a free 15-minute phone call to discuss your needs and check availability. This is not a counselling session, but a chance to see if we’re a good match.
DO YOU OFFER ONLINE OR TELEPHONE SESSIONS?
Yes, I offer both online and telephone counselling, providing flexibility no matter where you’re located.
I PREFER TO EMAIL, CAN YOU ACCOMMODATE ME?
Yes, I offer both email and instant messenger (text) counselling. Please contact me for further details.
DO YOU OFFER ECOTHERAPY SESSIONS?
Yes, I offer Walk and Talk Therapy starting from my therapy room in Worth (CT14), near Sandwich, Deal, and Ramsgate. Alternative starting points can be agreed upon but may incur additional costs.
WHERE ARE FACE-TO-FACE SESSIONS HELD?
Face-to-face sessions take place in my practice in Worth, between Sandwich and Deal, Kent. Full details will be provided upon booking.
HOW LONG IS EACH SESSION?
Regular adult and Children & Young Person (CYP) sessions, whether in person or remote, last 50 minutes. Brief or Single Session Therapy lasts up to 75 minutes. There are also extended 90- or 120-minute sessions available if you’d like to incorporate breathing or relaxation techniques, or conclude with a hands-on treatment.
HOW MANY SESSIONS WILL I NEED?
This varies for each individual. We usually start with six sessions and review progress around the third or fourth session. Some clients find two sessions sufficient, while others continue for months or longer. We’ll work together to determine what feels right for you.
DO I NEED TO COME EVERY WEEK?
Initially, I recommend weekly sessions, but I understand that life can be busy. Fortnightly or monthly sessions are also available, and you can alternate between face-to-face, Walk and Talk, and online sessions to fit your schedule.
WHAT IF I MISS A SESSION?
If you need to cancel or reschedule, please provide at least 72 hours’ notice (excluding weekends) to avoid being charged. If needed, in-person sessions can sometimes be switched to online.
WHAT IF I WANT TO STOP COUNSELLING?
There’s no obligation to continue therapy beyond what feels right for you. However, I recommend working towards a planned ending, usually over one or two sessions, for your own well-being.
DO YOU OFFER CONCESSIONS?
Yes, I offer discounts for block bookings and trainee counsellors. If cost is a concern, please reach out, as I have a small number of low-fee spaces available.
DO I NEED A REFERRAL FROM MY GP?
No referral is necessary. You can contact me directly to arrange an appointment.
WHAT IF MY QUESTION ISN’T ANSWERED HERE?
If you have any other questions or concerns that aren’t covered here, feel free to email me directly at lorraine@lorrainesmith.co.uk. I’m happy to help and will respond as soon as I can.
WHAT ARE YOUR FEES?
- £65 for a 50-minute session
- £77 for brief therapy
- Prepay monthly in advance for your weekly sessions. £250 for four sessions.
- Please contact me if you would like a price for combined therapy & relaxation techniques or combined therapy and hands-on treatment