Frequently Asked Questions
Starting therapy can bring up practical questions, as well as uncertainty about what to expect from the process. The information below is intended to offer clarity and reassurance. If there’s anything you’re still unsure about that isn’t covered here, please feel free to get in touch.
I can function so do I really need help?
Yes. You don’t have to be struggling every day for therapy to be worthwhile.
Therapy can make sense even if you’re functioning reasonably well, especially if:
- You have recurring difficult thoughts or emotions that keep coming back.
- You’re “managing” but it takes a lot of effort.
- Certain situations, relationships, or memories consistently affect you.
- You want to understand yourself better or develop healthier ways of coping.
- You’re waiting until things get bad before seeking support.
Do I need to know what I want to talk about before I start?
I don’t expect you to know what to talk about at each session and won’t judge you or think you’re ‘doing anything wrong’. Counselling isn’t like a test or a meeting where you need an agenda. Some sessions are more productive than others, and that’s normal. Just showing up is enough. I can work with the silence and gently guide you through the session.
How long does therapy last?
I offer short term and open-ended therapy and you will initially be allocated 6 sessions, with a view to extend at session 6 if it was felt appropriate and necessary to do so. This is your journey and you are in complete control, therefore the number of sessions required will depend on you and what you want to achieve through counselling.
What happens if sessions feel emotional or difficult?
Many people find attending counselling emotionally difficult, especially at first. Opening up about painful experiences, fears, relationships, grief, trauma, or stress can bring up strong feelings during or after a session. My job is to meet you where you are and hold you in a safe way. We will go at your pace and I will never push you to go further than you can manage at the time.
What is your cancellation policy?
I will be here at the agreed time for the duration that we are working together. If for any reason I have to cancel an appointment, I will notify you in advance and you will not be charged for the session.
It is important that you arrive on time. If you are late we will finish on time as I work an appointment system. You are expected to pay for all sessions, including any that you fail to attend or that you cancel without 24 hours’ notice.
Do you work with insurance providers?
I am registered as a provider with Aviva, Bupa and Cigna & Vitality Health Insurers. Insurance payments do need to be verified with your provider prior to assessment to ensure that treatment is covered and whether there are limits as to the amount of sessions that you are able to claim, and I will need a claim code from your insurer prior to booking an assessment appointment. Your insurance policy may also include an annual excess for which you are liable.
What can I expect from the first session?
The first session is an assessment and is an opportunity for us to get in know each other, for you to tell me about what brings you to counselling and for you to decide if working together is the way forward for you.
What if I feel nervous about starting therapy?
Feeling nervous before starting counselling is very common and I expect my clients to arrive feeling uncertain or awkward. You do not need to have a perfectly organized explanation of your life before the first session. A few things that can make the first appointment easier:
- Write down a few topics or feelings beforehand.
- Decide one thing you’d like the counsellor to understand about you.
- Plan something calming afterward, even something small like a walk or favourite meal.
- Remember that you are also assessing whether the counsellor feels like a good fit for you.
It’s also okay if the first session feels imperfect. Building trust usually takes time.
Do you offer online sessions?
I offer both in person and online sessions, please click here for all the details: Online Counselling – Alison Isaacs Therapy
How much do sessions cost?
I offer a free 30 minute initial consultation and my rates for sessions after that are priced at £45 Fees – Alison Isaacs Therapy
Is everything I share confidential?
Everything shared in my counselling room is treated with care and remains private. As I have a professional responsibility to act in line with safeguarding and legal requirements, there are a small number of situations where confidentiality cannot be maintained. I will discuss this with you at the initial consultation.
How do I get in touch or book a first session?
To make an appointment please contact me via email or telephone which can be found on my contact page. You can be assured that my voicemail is completely confidential and I will get back to you usually within a few hours of receiving the message.
What if I have further questions?
If you have a question that isn’t answered here, you’re welcome to get in touch by text, phone or email. Many people contact me to ask a brief question or to check something before arranging an initial assessment session.