FAQ

This page answers common questions about how I work and what to expect from counselling. If you’re unsure about anything or can’t find what you need here, you’re always welcome to get in touch.

How do I book a session?

You can email me at grace@graceellentherapy.co.uk or contact me through my website. We’ll find a time that works for you and talk through any questions before booking your first session. Anything you share when you get in touch is treated with care and confidentiality.

How long will it take you to get back to me?

I aim to reply within 24 hours during the working week (Monday–Friday).

What are your fees?

My standard fee is £60 for a 50‑minute session. I also offer a reduced‑rate introductory session at £45. Fees are the same for online, in person, and hybrid sessions.

What if I need to cancel a session?

You can cancel or reschedule with 48 hours’ notice. Full details are included in the information I send before we begin.

Who do you work with?

I work with adults (18+) on a one‑to‑one basis. I don’t offer counselling for children, young people, or couples.

What happens before my first session?

When you get in touch, I’ll send some information about how I work and a short pre‑therapy form. It helps me understand what you’re hoping for and whether I’m the right person to support you. If it feels like a good fit, we’ll arrange a session time, and I’ll send the practical details you need before we meet.

What happens in the first session?

In the first session, we’ll take time to explore what’s brought you to counselling and what you’d like support with. I’ll ask some questions to get a clear picture of what you’re dealing with, what you’re finding difficult, and what you’re hoping for. We’ll also talk a little about your background, such as family relationships, significant experiences, and any mental health history.

This usually takes most of the session. It helps me understand your situation and whether I’m the right person to support you. It also gives you a sense of what it’s like to work with me, and you can ask anything you need to know before deciding whether to continue.

Do you offer online counselling?

Yes. I offer counselling online for clients anywhere in the UK. Some people choose online sessions for flexibility, privacy or comfort.

Do you offer in‑person sessions?

Yes. I offer in‑person sessions in central Southampton. The room is accessed by stairs – there’s more information about accessibility at the bottom of this page.

What is hybrid counselling?

Hybrid counselling combines in‑person and online sessions, allowing you to switch between the two depending on your schedule, health, or preferences. It offers flexibility if you want to attend in person when you can, and continue online in the weeks when you can’t.

How long is each session?

Sessions are 50 minutes.

How often do sessions take place?

Most people come weekly, as it helps the work stay connected and consistent. There is some flexibility, and we can talk about what feels manageable for you.

How many sessions will I need?

There’s no set number. Some people come for a short period to focus on something specific; others prefer longer‑term work. We’ll review things together as we go.

What can I talk about in counselling?

Anything you want to explore – thoughts, feelings, patterns, relationships, decisions, or things you’re finding difficult. You don’t need to arrive with everything worked out.

Is counselling confidential?

Yes. What you share stays between us, with a few legal and safeguarding exceptions that I’ll explain clearly in our first session.

Do you work with specific issues?

Yes. I work with many different experiences, from anxiety and stress to relationship difficulties, trauma, identity questions and life transitions. There’s a fuller list on my About page. If you’re not sure whether what you are dealing with is something I can help with, please ask, I’m always happy to respond to any questions. If I’m not the right person for what you need, I can usually suggest other counsellors who may be a better fit.

Do you offer short‑term or long‑term counselling?

Both. You can choose a set number of sessions or keep things open‑ended. We’ll decide together based on what you need.

What if I’m not sure counselling is right for me?

You don’t need to be certain before getting in touch. The first session is there to help you decide, without any pressure to continue.

Do you offer evening appointments?

I offer a range of times during the week, including some evenings. We can look at what’s possible when you get in touch.

Is your space accessible?

The room is on the second floor and only accessible by stairs. I recognise this may make in‑person sessions difficult or not possible for some people, and I’m working towards finding a more accessible space in the future. Online sessions remain available for anyone who would prefer or require them.