Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Below are answers to practical questions about how sessions work and what to expect.
If there’s something you’d like clarified, you’re welcome to get in touch.
I’m a registered and accredited member of the National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society (NCPS) and work in accordance with their professional and ethical standards.
If you’d like a fuller overview of how sessions typically unfold, you may find my blog post on what therapy is like useful.
Claire Lakey Counselling
What happens in the first session?
The first session is a chance for us to understand what has brought you to counselling and what you would like to think about more clearly. We will begin to explore the situation you’re facing and discuss how we might work together.
What if I feel stuck or uncertain about my career direction?
Many people come to counselling because they feel stuck in their career or uncertain about what to do next.
Often the difficulty is not simply the job itself, but the questions and pressures surrounding it — expectations, confidence, long-standing patterns, or uncertainty about what you really want.
Counselling creates space to step back, think clearly about what is happening, and consider the direction you want to take. Sometimes the work is not about finding a quick answer, but about understanding what has made the decision difficult in the first place.
How often do sessions take place and when are appointments available?
Sessions usually take place weekly, particularly at the beginning of the work. This helps build continuity and allows us to explore things more clearly over time.
I offer a small number of morning, lunchtime and evening appointments so that sessions can fit around working life. Availability varies, so it’s best to get in touch to check current options.
Fees
Sessions are 50 minutes and cost £70.
Payment is made by bank transfer prior to each session.
A small number of reduced-fee places are available for people in career transition, such as students, people retraining or those returning to work. Please feel free to ask if this may apply to you.
I offer a free 30-minute initial consultation so we can discuss what you would like help with and whether working together feels like the right fit.
If you would like to arrange a consultation or ask any questions, you are welcome to get in touch:
Email: clairelakeycounselling@outlook.com
Telephone: 07900 932 064
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