Frequently Asked Questions
Can you work with anyone?
I'm able to see any client based in the UK over the age of 18.
Before agreeing to work together I would take into account your needs and my ability to meet those needs. If I feel undertrained or underqualified I will do my best to suggest someone more appropriate for you.
What kind of issues do you work with?
I enjoy working with clients who are interested in exploring who they are and how they fit into the world. You might be questioning who you are, perhaps you have lost touch with your sense of self, you might feel a bit lost or purposeless. You might be questioning the path you have taken in life and the choices you have made, whether in relation to work, relationships, spirituality or philosophy, or more widely how you have lived your life.
This might involve talking about gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation and/or relationship styles. Whether you are questioning or curious, I'm up for exploring with you, in a non-judgmental, open, compassionate and inquisitive way.
The majority of clients I work with are neurodivergent in some way, but you don't have to be: All are welcome and all ways of being are prized and celebrated.
Alongside these explorations there are often experiences of anxiety; depression; substance use and addiction; suicide and self-harm; mental distress; experiences of bullying and abuse; and/or grief and loss. You are welcome to bring any and all of these issues to counselling and I will be ready and willing to support you, helping you navigate your thoughts and emotions at a pace that feels safe and manageable.
I'm interested, what happens next?
How much does it cost?
I currently charge £55 for each hour-long session. I review my fees every autumn and any changes take place in January. I aim to give as much notice of any price increase as possible, usually between two and three months.
When can I see you?
I work Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays between 10:30am and 7:30pm.
Do you work online?
Is your counselling room accessible?
The room I usually work from is on the first floor only accessible via a flight of stairs, there is no lift. However, I do have access to a ground floor room which I am happy to book if needed.
How long does counselling last?
Each session usually lasts for an hour. If this feels too long we can talk about altering the length of the session.
Some people prefer long term counselling whilst others would prefer six to eight sessions, whilst some even find that just one or two are enough to make a difference.
We can talk about what feels best for you in the initial appointment and make a plan together. I will regularly check in with you to see how you are feeling about the sessions. You are free to end the counselling at any time.
What if I need to cancel a session?
If you need to cancel an appointment please let me know via email as soon as possible.
I ask for a minimum of 48 hours notice for re-scheduling or cancelling an appointment. I have to charge the full fee for sessions missed without such notice.
If you've booked an introductory session and are having second thoughts, please get in touch. Often people feel better once they've booked a session, but this only lasts so long. Trust the part of you that knew it needed help and see what happens.
Are the sessions confidential?
Yes, I won't talk to anyone about you or our sessions, but in order to work safely and ethically there are a few exceptions:
As all professional counsellors, I regular see a supervisor where we discuss my work to ensure I am working effectively and ethically. Whilst I might discuss any issues arising from my work with you, this is done in an anonymised way.
In certain exceptional circumstances, if I felt you or others might be at risk of harm or in some legal circumstances, I might consider widening confidentiality but I would always endeavour to discuss this with you prior to taking any action.
When will you reply to my email or message?
I endeavour to reply to emails within 24 hours Monday to Friday. At other times of the week I may take longer to get back to you.
I respect clients’ privacy and the integrity of the counselling relationship and it’s boundaries by not following or connecting on any social media platform.
In times of mental health or psychological emergencies, dial 999 or if possible attend your local A&E Hospital, or contact the Samaritans 116 123
Have a Question that's not listed here? Get in touch and I'll get back to you as soon as I can.
I offer a free 15-20 minute telephone or online chat, with no obligation to go further.
During that time I'll ask you to give me a brief outline of what's bringing you to counselling and what you hope to get out of counselling and I can answer any questions you might have.
If I feel that I am not qualified or experienced enough to help you I will offer suggestions of where you might go next.
Equally, at the end of the call you might decide that I'm not the right counsellor for you, you might want to go away and take some time to think things over, or you might want to meet up to try out an introductory session. Any of these outcomes is absolutely fine, the important thing is to feel free to choose what's right for you.
If you'd like to arrange a free call, or if you'd like to book an hour long introductory session, send me a message through my contact form or email me: sarah-ellan@outlook.com and I'll get back to you to set something up.
I don't usually offer online sessions as my preferred way of working is face to face. However, if you would like to wok online due to accessibility challenges I would be happy to do so.