Frequently Asked Questions
What is bereavement counselling?
Bereavement counselling provides a compassionate space to explore your grief and the changes that follow a loss. It does not aim to take your grief away or encourage you to ‘move on,’ but to help you understand your emotions and adapt to a new reality.
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Unlike talking to friends and family, counselling offers a unique relationship, free from judgment and without being offered solutions or ways to 'fix' things. My aim is always to hear your story from your perspective and to accompany you on your own individual journey.
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Over time, counselling may help you make sense of your experience, and adjust to a different way of being that feels right for you.
How long does counselling last?
This will be different for each individual. I work in an open-ended way, meaning there is no set number of sessions — we can continue for as long as the support feels helpful. We will regularly review our work together and plan for an ending when the time feels right. If you prefer to work to an agreed number of sessions (for example, six), this can also be arranged.
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​Each session is 50 minutes long and I recommend attending weekly. However, your requirements and availability can be individually discussed.
Is counselling confidential?
Confidentiality is an important part of the therapeutic relationship, and I respect the trust placed upon me in our work together. Our discussions will remain confidential unless I am legally required to make a disclosure or if you, or another person, is at risk of serious harm. This will be discussed in greater detail during our first session together.
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Professionally, I engage in regular supervision to reflect on my practice, receive guidance, and uphold ethical standards of care that support client well-being. Any client work presented in supervision will be anonymized and confidentiality will be maintained.
The weight of everything I was carrying is much lighter.
How do I know if you're the right counsellor for me?
An introductory phone call before our first session can help to establish if I am the right counsellor for you, and allows you to ask any questions you may have. You might need to consider the type of therapy you need, as well as practical details like availability, and location. While I hope we can work well together, there is no obligation to continue if you feel uncertain. We frequently review our progress and I appreciate your feedback, which can further improve our work together.
Do you offer online counselling?
Yes. I offer online sessions via video call.
What should I do next?
To book an initial call or if you have any further questions, please contact me at:
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counselling.sarah@outlook.com​​
07502 335 916
What type of counselling do you offer?
I am a qualified Humanistic (Person-Centred) counsellor, committed to supporting clients in exploring their feelings, experiences, and personal growth within a safe, non-judgmental environment. I have additional training in bereavement and grief, enabling me to provide specialist support for those navigating loss.
In my work, I aim to create a space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported. I may also integrate psychoeducation where it is helpful, tailoring my approach to meet your unique needs. My goal is to help you process your experiences, understand your emotions, and adapt to life after significant change.
Having a safe, accepted as I am, space has been really helpful.
What should I expect during a session?
Our first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other. I will explain how I work, and you’ll have space to ask any questions. We’ll begin to explore what has brought you to counselling, understand a little more about your loss, and talk about what feels most important to you right now.
In ongoing sessions, you will take the lead, bringing the topics or experiences you wish to explore. My aim is to offer an approachable, friendly, and professional space where you can feel comfortable and supported.
What are your qualifications?
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Level 4 CPCAB Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling.
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Level 3 Award in Counselling Skills and Theory.
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Level 2 Award in Helping Skills.
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Level 1 Award in Interpersonal Skills.
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Cruse Bereavement Support Foundation Course.
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Mindworks Youth Counselling Service Placement Counsellor Training Course.
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​Shapes of Grief - Professional Certificate in Loss and Grief.
​​In adherence to ethical standards, and to enhance my ability to support clients effectively, I participate in regular CPD (Continuing Professional Development).
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How do I pay you?
Full payment for each session is required on the day of your appointment. Payment must be made via bank transfer. Further details will be provided when we begin working together.
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Where and when can I see you?
I work in-person, near Guildford, Surrey, and online via video call. I currently have some daytime and evening availability. Please contact me to discuss further.
Also...
Committed to professional, safe and effective service, I am a member of the BACP and adhere to their Ethical Framework. I also adhere to GDPR regulations and am insured to practice as a qualified counsellor.
