How can counselling psychotherapy help me?

People seek counselling for many reasons, including:

 

• Anxiety and stress 

• Depression and low mood

• Irritable bowel sydrome 

• Relationship difficulties 

• Bereavement and loss 

• Trauma and abuse 

• Low self-esteem 

• Life transitions 

• Work-related stress 

• Family issues 

• Personal Issues

 

Counselling psychotherapy can help you better understand yourself, process difficult emotions, and make positive changes in your life.

 

Who do you work with?

I work with adults, couples, children and young adults.

 

What happens during the first session?

The first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other. We’ll discuss what has brought you to counselling, what you hope to achieve, and any questions or concerns you may have. There is no pressure to share everything immediately, and we will work at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

 

How long does each session last?

Sessions last 50 minutes and usually take place on a weekly basis.

 

How many counselling sessions will I need?

There is no fixed number of sessions. Some people benefit from short-term counselling focused on a specific issue, while others choose longer-term therapy for deeper exploration and personal growth. We will regularly review our work together to ensure it continues to meet your needs and budget.

 

Is counselling psychotherapy confidential?

Yes. Everything discussed in counselling is treated as confidential. However, there are a few exceptions where confidentiality may need to be broken, such as if there is a serious risk of harm to yourself or others, or if disclosure is required by law. These limits will be explained clearly before we begin working together. 

 

Do you offer online counselling psychotherapy?

Yes. I offer online counselling sessions via secure video platforms, allowing you to access support from the comfort and privacy of your own home.

 

Do you offer face-to-face counselling psychotherapy in Putney?

Yes. Face-to-face counselling sessions are available in Putney, South West London, in a private and comfortable setting with excellent transport links.

 

What issues do you work with?

II support adults experiencing a range of difficulties, including:

 

• Anxiety and panic 

• Depression 

• Stress and burnout

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) 

• Relationship concerns 

• Grief and loss 

• Self-confidence issues 

• Trauma 

• Life changes 

• Work-related difficulties

• Personal development 

 

If you’re unsure whether counselling or psychotherapy is right for your situation, please feel free to get in touch.

 

Do I need a GP referral?

No. You can contact me directly to arrange an initial appointment. A GP referral is not required. 

 

What is your therapeutic approach?

My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and tailored to your individual needs. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is at the heart of effective counselling and provides the foundation for meaningful change. Including compassion-focused therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, dialectic behavioural therapy, couples counselling, psychodynamic and mindfulness approaches.

 

Are you professionally qualified?

Yes. I am professionally trained and committed to working within recognised ethical standards. I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) (reg no.00665576)  and British Psychological Society (BPS) (reg no. 134361).

 

What if I need to cancel an appointment?

I ask that you provide at least 48 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or rearrange a session. Appointments cancelled with less notice may be charged in full. 

 

Can I contact you between sessions?

Contact between sessions is generally limited to practical matters such as scheduling or cancellations. Any additional arrangements can be discussed and agreed upon during our work together. 

 

What if counselling psychotherapy feels difficult?

It is normal for counselling psychotherapy to sometimes bring up challenging emotions. We will work together to ensure that you feel supported throughout the process. You are always encouraged to share any concerns about the counselling experience so we can discuss them openly.

 

How do I get started?

Getting started is simple. You can contact me by phone: 07967729853, email: support@paulabendon.com, or via the contact form on this website: www.paulabendon.com, to arrange an initial consultation. This gives us an opportunity to discuss your needs and determine whether we are a good fit to work together.