What to expect
Starting counselling can feel uncertain, especially if it is your first time. This page explains how our sessions work and what you can expect when you come to see us.
Counselling offers a private and supportive space where you can talk openly about what is on your mind. There is no pressure to share everything at once. Your counsellor will guide the conversation at a pace that feels manageable for you. Sessions are focused on listening, understanding your experiences, and helping you make sense of your thoughts and feelings in a safe and respectful setting.
Session information
Below you will find practical information about session length, confidentiality, booking, and what happens if you need to cancel.
How long is a typical session?
Counselling sessions last 50 minutes, providing focused and productive time to work throughyour concerns.
Can I book my sessions online?
Yes, you can request to book your sessions online; please indicate your preference when arranging your appointments.
Do I need to prepare anything before my first session?
No formal preparation is needed. It can be helpful to think about what brought you to counselling, but your counsellor will guide the conversation and help youexplore your feelings and concerns.
Is there a cost?
No, we operate as a free service.
How many sessions will be offered?
We typically offer between 6 and 16 sessions, depending on your circumstances.
Scheduling & cancellations
How do I schedule an appointment?
You can refer to our counselling serviceby completing a short, secure form: Listening Lounge Referral Form. Please indicate in your referral if you have previously used ourservice.
Once submitted, a member of our counselling team will contact you to arrange an initial assessment. This assessment helps us understand your needs and determine the most appropriate support. If another service may be more suitable, we can provide a referral.
Initial assessments are usually available within 2–3 weeks, depending on availability.
Drop-in service
While waiting, you can use our drop-in service, available by phone or face-to-face from 10am–8pm, Monday to Sunday. No appointment is needed, but you can also schedule a time in advance by calling 01534 866793.
What is your cancellation policy?
We are a government-funded service providing free support, and we ask for a commitment to regular attendance. Consistency is essential in the counselling process, as it creates a stable and supportive environment for therapeutic progress
- Planned holidays: Please inform us in advance
- Unexpected absences: While occasional missed sessions are understood, frequent absences may result in the need to end your counselling sessions.
- Counsellor availability:If your counsellor is unable to attend due to holidays, training, or illness, we will provide as much notice as possible
Counselling offers a private and supportive space where you can talk openly about what is on your mind.
We offer psychoeducational services
In addition to one-on-one counselling, we provide psychoeducational courses that teach valuable skills for improving wellbeing. Our current courses include:
- Healthy Communication: Increase awareness of personal communication patterns and learn practical skills for healthy communication
- Menopause Support Group: Support for anyone experiencing menopause symptoms
- From Struggle to Strength: Strategies for managing anxiety and depression
These courses are open to anyone interested in improving their mental wellbeing.
To find out more, please email: info@listeninglounge.care
