What happens in the free 20-minute session?

This is a chance for us to briefly connect. I understand how difficult taking the first step can be. You can ask me questions, share a little about what’s going on, and see whether therapy with me feels like a good fit. It’s informal, there are absolutely no expectations and there’s no pressure to book afterwards.

 

How do I know if therapy is right for me or my young person?

You may have noticed changes in their mood, confidence, or behaviour, maybe they seem anxious, overwhelmed, angry, or shut down. If your gut is telling you that something’s not quite right, it’s worth exploring support. Therapy can help children and teens make sense of what they’re feeling, build emotional resilience, and feel more secure in themselves and their world.

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What if my young person doesn’t want to talk?

That’s completely okay, many young people find it hard to explain what they’re feeling. I use creative approaches, which help them express their emotions without needing to find the “right” words. We go at a pace that feels safe and manageable.

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Can teenagers and young people have therapy without their parents involved?

Absolutely. Therapy is confidential. That means they can speak freely, and what they share stays private, unless there is a risk of harm. I always encourage teens to let parents know they’re in therapy, but the space itself belongs to them.

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Can I be involved in my young person's therapy?

Therapy works best when they have their own private, consistent space, without parents present in sessions. This allows them to build trust, express themselves freely, and do their therapeutic work without feeling observed or monitored.

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What kinds of issues can therapy help with?

I work with a wide range of emotional and mental health concerns, including:

• Anxiety or panic

• Low self-esteem or confidence

• Depression or persistent low mood

• Anger and emotional regulation

• People-pleasing or perfectionism

• School refusal or social anxiety

• Trauma or Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)

• Difficult family relationships

• Eating and body image struggles

• Chronic illness 

If you’re unsure whether therapy is right for your situation, feel free to get in touch for an informal chat.

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How long does therapy last?

Therapy is different for everyone. Some clients come for a short period (6–12 sessions) to work through a specific issue; others find longer-term therapy helpful to explore deeper patterns or long-standing struggles. We’ll check in regularly to review how things are going and decide together what’s needed. Each session lasts for 50 minutes (a therapeutic hour).

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What if I’ve had therapy before and it didn’t help?

That’s completely valid, and more common than you might think. Therapy is about the therapeutic relationship. Sometimes it takes time to find the right therapist or the right approach. You deserve to feel truly seen, understood, and safe in the process. If you’re feeling unsure, we can talk it through and take things at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

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Do you offer online therapy?

Yes. I offer online sessions via secure video link for:

• Teenagers 

• Adults

Online therapy is just as effective for many clients and can offer greater flexibility and comfort. 

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What are your qualifications?

I hold a Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling Children and Young People from the University of Northampton and am a member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy). I’m currently completing my Master’s degree in the same specialist area.

Before training as a therapist, I worked in schools as a teacher, a role that deepened my understanding of how emotional wellbeing impacts learning, relationships, and development.

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What is the cost?

Each session is £70.

I also offer a free 20-minute consultation (phone or online) so you can ask questions and we can see whether working together feels right.

 

How do I book a session?

You can book online directly via my website. If you don’t see a time that works for you, please don’t hesitate to get in touch, I often have flexibility outside of the listed hours.

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Do you offer reduced-rate sessions?

Yes. I offer a limited number of reduced-rate 6-week packages for clients who need more affordable access to counselling. These spaces are limited and released periodically throughout the year.

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What is included in the reduced-rate 6-week package?

The package includes six weekly sessions at a lower, accessible rate. It provides short-term, focused support without any obligation to continue afterwards.

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What happens when the 6-week block ends?

When the 6-week block finishes, we’ll review things together. You are welcome to continue at my standard rate of £70 per session, or—if a reduced-rate space is available at that time—we can discuss continuing at an adjusted rate. Reduced-rate availability varies depending on my caseload.

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Can I stay on the reduced rate long-term?

Possibly, but it isn’t guaranteed. Reduced-rate places are limited and offered only when I have capacity. If a reduced-rate spot is available when your block ends, we can explore continuing. If not, you may continue at the standard rate.

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How do I apply for a reduced-rate package?

You can contact me directly to ask about current availability. If a reduced-rate space is open, I’ll offer you the next available 6-week block. If not, I can let you know when new spaces are likely to be released.

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Why are reduced-rate spots limited?

To keep my work sustainable and ensure I can provide high-quality support to all clients. As a small practice, I balance reduced-rate places alongside my full-rate caseload.

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Do I have to commit to ongoing counselling after the 6 weeks?

No. The 6-week block stands alone. After it ends, we simply review what feels right for you—whether that’s ending, pausing, or continuing.

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Can I book another 6-week block at the reduced rate?

You can request one, and if a reduced-rate space is available at the time, I’ll be happy to offer it. If not, you’re welcome to continue at my standard rate or join the waiting list for future reduced-rate spaces.

 

Call/text: 07984 466809

Email: therapy@patchworkpathways.co.uk

 

I usually respond within 1–2 working days. I’ll always do my best to accommodate your availability and make the process as easy as possible.

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Still have questions?

No question is too small, feel free to reach out, even if you’re just exploring the idea of therapy. Whether you’re a parent, teen, or adult, I’m here to listen, support, and walk alongside you.