Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re looking for addiction or alcohol counselling in Bournemouth or Christchurch, you may have questions about how counselling works, what to expect and whether it could help you.
Where are you located?
I am based in Christchurch near Bournemouth, Dorset where I work in the South’s finest independent therapy rooms: Wessex Health Network, 17 Stour Road, Christchurch BH23 1PL. This is a 2 minute walk from Christchurch train station, and has free, off-road parking.
I am also available for online sessions via Zoom.
How many sessions should I have?
There is no set number of counselling sessions. Everyone’s circumstances are different, and the number of sessions you need will depend on what you are seeking support with and what you want to achieve.
Some people find that a small number of sessions gives them the support they need, while others benefit from longer-term counselling. We can review your progress together as we go, so that the work remains focused on what is most useful for you.
If you are seeking addiction or alcohol counselling, we can discuss your circumstances during an initial consultation and consider what type and level of support may be appropriate.
How long does each counselling session last?
Each counselling session lasts 50 minutes. Sessions are available in person in Christchurch, Dorset, or online via Zoom.
The first session gives us an opportunity to talk about what is bringing you to counselling, what you would like support with and what you hope to achieve. We can then agree on an approach that is appropriate for you.
If you are looking for addiction or alcohol counselling, I can provide a confidential space to explore what is happening and consider the support that may be most helpful.
How regular are the sessions?
Sessions are usually arranged weekly, particularly at the beginning of counselling, as regular support can help create continuity and momentum.
The frequency can be adjusted depending on your circumstances, needs and progress. Some people may benefit from weekly sessions for a period of time, while others may prefer to move to less frequent sessions as they progress.
We can discuss what would work best for you during your initial consultation.
I'm worried about someone else
If you are worried about someone else’s drinking, drug use or other addictive behaviour, you do not have to wait until they are ready to seek help before getting support yourself.
Addiction can affect partners, parents, children and other family members, and it can be difficult to know what to do or how to respond. Counselling can give you a confidential space to talk about what is happening, understand the impact it is having on you and consider what might help.
You can contact me to discuss your circumstances and whether counselling could be helpful. You do not need to have all the answers before getting in touch.