Frequently Asked Questions
This page is here to answer the questions people often have before starting counselling. If you’re wondering something and don’t see it here, you’re very welcome to ask.
About counselling
What is counselling?
Counselling is a confidential space where you can talk openly about what’s going on for you, at your own pace. You don’t need a diagnosis or a clear agenda — just a willingness to show up as you are.
What is Person-Centred Therapy?
Person-Centred Therapy is a humanistic approach that focuses on creating a safe, non-judgemental and accepting relationship. Rather than giving advice or telling you what to do, I support you to explore your thoughts and feelings and find your own way forward.
What if I don’t know what to talk about?
That’s completely okay. Many people start counselling feeling unsure or tongue-tied. We can begin wherever you are — even with not knowing.
About working with me
Who do you work with?
I work with adults experiencing a wide range of emotional difficulties, including anxiety, low self-worth, relationship struggles, identity questions, life transitions and feeling overwhelmed.
Do you work in a neurodiversity-affirming way?
Yes. I aim to work in a way that respects different ways of thinking, feeling and experiencing the world. Sessions can be adapted to suit your communication style and needs.
What is your approach as a counsellor?
My work is grounded in Person-Centred Therapy, with an emphasis on empathy, authenticity and acceptance. I’m open about what this approach offers — and what it doesn’t.
Practical questions
How many sessions will I need?
There’s no fixed number. Some people come for a few sessions, others longer-term. We can review this together as we go.
How often are sessions?
Most clients attend weekly or fortnightly, but this can be discussed based on your needs.
How much does counselling cost?
Session fees and current availability are listed on my website. If you have questions about affordability, you’re welcome to ask.
What if…?
What if counselling doesn’t work for me?
That’s okay. No single approach suits everyone. If Person-Centred Therapy doesn’t feel right, I’ll support you in thinking about other options.
I am also available on verified professional counselling platforms click the 'external links' button below to find out more
Privacy Policy
Your privacy
I am committed to handling your personal information with care, respect, and confidentiality. This policy explains what information I collect, why I collect it, how it is stored, and your rights under UK GDPR.
What information I collect
Depending on your contact with me, I may collect:
Basic personal details – such as your name, email address, phone number, and date of birth
Health-related information – including relevant mental health history or reasons for seeking counselling
Session notes – brief notes to support safe and ethical practice
Website information – such as IP address or cookie data when you visit the site
I only collect what is necessary for counselling and professional responsibilities.
How I collect your information
Your information may be collected when:
You contact me via email, phone, or the website
You complete a contact or enquiry form
We begin counselling and during our sessions
You browse the website (through cookies or basic analytics)
Why I collect this information
I collect and use your information in order to:
Provide counselling safely and appropriately
Communicate with you about appointments
Meet legal, ethical, and professional obligations
Maintain basic records of our work together
Improve the website experience
Your information is never sold or used for marketing purposes.
Lawful basis for processing
Under UK GDPR, I rely on the following lawful bases:
Consent – you give permission for your data to be used for counselling purposes
Contract – processing is necessary for our therapeutic agreement
Legal obligation – where required by law or professional regulation
Vital interests – in rare circumstances, to protect life
How your data is stored
Your information is stored securely:
Electronic records are password-protected and encrypted
Any paper records are stored in a locked cabinet
Records are kept for up to 7 years after counselling ends, in line with professional guidance, and then securely destroyed.
Confidentiality and its limits
Everything you share is treated as confidential.
There are rare situations where I may need to share information, for example:
If there is a serious risk of harm to you or someone else
If there are safeguarding concerns
If I am legally required to disclose information (e.g. by a court)
Wherever possible, I would aim to discuss this with you first.
Your rights
You have the right to:
Access the personal data I hold about you
Ask for corrections if information is inaccurate
Withdraw consent where applicable
Request deletion of your data (subject to legal or ethical requirements)
Restrict or object to certain types of processing
You can also raise concerns with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO): www.ico.org.uk
Cookies
This website may use cookies to improve how it works. You can control cookie settings through your browser. Cookies do not collect counselling or session information.
Third-party services
I may use carefully selected third-party services (such as email providers, booking systems, or video platforms). These services are chosen to meet GDPR requirements.
Changes to this policy
This policy may be updated from time to time. Any changes will be shown on this page along with the updated date.
Contact
If you have any questions about this policy or how your information is handled, please contact:
Lynda Peters
Spread Your Wings Therapy
click the 'contact me 'button below