Inner Wild Counselling

Counselling FAQs: What to Expect

Answers to common questions about starting counselling, your first consultation and what to expect from sessions with Inner Wild Counselling.

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What to Expect at Inner Wild Counselling

Starting counselling can feel like a big step, especially if it’s your first time. This page is here to gently guide you through what working with Inner Wild Counselling looks like, from making an enquiry to attending sessions.

There’s no pressure, no expectations to “know what to say”, and no right or wrong way to begin.

Making Contact

Getting in touch is simple and informal. You can use the contact form to ask a question, enquire about availability, or express interest in a particular service.

You don’t need to have everything figured out – a brief message is more than enough.

Once you’ve made contact, I’ll usually respond within 48 hours to answer any questions and arrange the next step.

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Do I need to know what I want to talk about before I get in touch?

No. Many people reach out without knowing exactly what they want to say. We can explore this together at your pace.

What if I’m not sure counselling is right for me?

It’s completely okay to be unsure. The first steps are about exploring whether counselling feels supportive for you, without pressure to commit.

How do I book my free initial phone consultation?

You can get in touch using the contact form on the website. I’ll respond to discuss availability and next steps.

Can I ask questions before booking?

Yes. You’re welcome to ask any questions you have before deciding whether to book a session.

The First Step: Your Free Phone Consultation

Your first step is a free 20-minute phone consultation. This is an informal initial conversation rather than a counselling session, giving us an opportunity to get to know each other, talk about what has brought you to counselling and explore what type of support might be most suitable for you.

We’ll gently look at:

What you’d like support with.
Any previous experience of counselling.
What you’re hoping for from the process.
Which type of counselling may feel most suitable for you.

There’s no expectations to share everything straight away – we’ll work at a pace that feels right for you.

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Do I have to choose one type of therapy straight away?

No. We can discuss different options and adjust how we work if your needs change over time.

Can I switch between indoor and outdoor therapy sessions?

Yes, where appropriate and agreed together, flexibility is possible.

Are outdoor sessions still confidential?

Yes. We choose quieter routes and settings, and confidentiality is always prioritised.

What happens if the weather is bad for outdoor sessions?

We’ll discuss alternatives in advance, which may include rescheduling or moving indoors. Cancellations only occur during adverse weather warnings.

What happens if someone I know approaches me during an outdoor therapy session?

We can discuss this prior to taking any therapy session outdoors. We can agree to take a specific approach if we come across such a situation.

Counselling Options Available

Inner Wild Counselling offers different ways of working, depending on your needs and preferences.

Ways of working include:

You’re not expected to know which approach is “best”- this can be discussed together and may even develop into a blended approach over time.

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Do I need to prepare anything beforehand?

There’s no preparation required. Some people find it helpful to reflect on what they’d like support with, but it’s absolutely fine to arrive without a clear plan. Counselling is a place to explore things as they arise.

How long is the initial phone consultation?

The initial phone consultation usually lasts around 20 minutes.

What if I’m unsure which type of counselling to choose?

It’s very common to feel unsure at the beginning. We can talk through the different options – such as in-practice counselling, walk-and-talk therapy, ecotherapy, or mindfulness walks – and decide together what feels most supportive for you right now.

Is counselling confidential?

Yes. Counselling sessions are confidential, with a few legal and ethical exceptions which will be explained clearly at the outset. Your privacy and trust are taken seriously at all times.

What if I feel nervous or uncomfortable?

Feeling nervous is completely normal, especially before your first session. There’s no expectation to “get it right”. Counselling is your space, and we can take things slowly and gently.

How do I get started?

You can start by getting in touch via the contact form. From there, we can arrange an initial phone consultation to discuss your needs, availability, session options and next-steps.

Confidentiality & Boundaries

Confidentiality is a core part of counselling. What you share is treated with care and respect, within professional and ethical boundaries.

Any limits to confidentiality will be clearly explained before counselling begins.

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Is what I share in counselling confidential?

Yes. Everything you share in counselling is treated as confidential and handled with care and respect. I follow the BACP Ethical Framework, which places confidentiality at the heart of safe and ethical therapeutic practice.

Are there any limits to confidentiality?

There are a small number of legal and ethical exceptions. These include situations where there is a serious risk of harm to you or others, or where I am legally required to share information. If this ever became relevant, I would aim to discuss it with you openly wherever possible.

Are notes kept about sessions?

I may keep brief, confidential notes to support my reflective practice and ensure continuity of care. These are stored securely and in line with data protection requirements and the BACP Ethical Framework.

Will my information be shared with anyone else?

No. Your information is not shared with anyone without your consent, unless required by law or ethical duty. Your privacy and trust are always respected.

What professional standards do you work to?

I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and work in accordance with their ethical framework. This ensures boundaries, accountability, and a commitment to best practice.

What boundaries are in place within the counselling relationship?

Clear professional boundaries help create a safe and contained therapeutic space. This includes agreed session times, fees, contact arrangements, and the nature of our relationship, all of which support trust and consistency.

Can we discuss confidentiality if I have concerns?

Absolutely. You’re welcome to ask questions about confidentiality or boundaries at any point. These conversations are an important part of feeling safe and informed in therapy.

Practical Information

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How long are sessions?

Indoor sessions and walk-and-talk sessions last 50 minutes, unless otherwise agreed.
Nature-based art will last 90 minutes.

How often will we meet?

Most people start with weekly sessions, but this can be reviewed depending on your needs.

How many sessions will I need?

There’s no fixed number. Some people come for short-term support, others longer-term. We review this together.

Is what I say kept confidential?

Yes. Confidentiality is an assential part of counselling, with a few legal and ethical exceptions that will be explained clearly.

Reach Out Today

If you’d like to learn more, ask a question or explore whether counselling with Inner Wild could be right for you, I’d love to hear from you.

You can get in touch through the contact form, and I’ll usually respond within 48 hours.

Warm regards,
Inner Wild Counselling