Questions

1 

Who is Blackwater Therapy suitable for?

Blackwater Therapy is suitable for adults, or teenagers on a 1-to-1 basis.

2

If you’re feeling suicidal

If you're feeling suicidal or in crisis, contact the emergency services and/or Samaritans at www.samaritans.org or by telephone on 116 123 (in the UK).

3

What can Blackwater Therapy help with?

Blackwater Therapy can work with you – whatever’s going on for you and wherever you are in your life- whether that means tackling difficult issues, implementing change, or practicing positive mental health and mindfulness including but not limited to):

Abuse, Anger management, Anxiety, Bereavement, Business coaching, Career coaching, Child related issues, Chronic fatigue syndrome / ME, Depression, Development coaching, Disability, Eating disorders, Health related issues, Identity issues, Infertility, Loss, Menopause, Personal development, Post-traumatic stress, Pregnancy related issues, Redundancy, Relationships, Self-esteem, Self-harm, Sexual identity, Sexuality, Stress, Trauma, Women's issues, Work related issues

4

What can I expect from sessions and how am I likely to feel?

Attending counselling can be daunting, especially if you've never done it before. Feeling anxious or nervous about opening up is understandable. It is natural to be concerned about these things, we do not have any expectations of you and we will be guided by you.

We may ask questions to gain a deeper understanding of what is going on for you and what you may need from therapy, but sessions are client-led, which means you can go at your own pace and talk about whatever you want to talk about – we will not push you to talk about anything you do not want to talk about. We might offer techniques to help you achieve desired outcomes or reach goals, but we won't give advice or tell you what you should or shouldn't do. It is a safe and non-judgmental space.

Sessions may cover a range of topics and - therefore - you may experience a range of emotions. Everyone is unique and responds differently, opening up about things you may not have discussed before or have held in for a long time might feel liberating and can be a form of healing - like a release. It's also possible you may feel low or worse before you start to feel better. Some weeks might feel as if a weight has been lifted, other weeks might feel the opposite.

5

How often will I have sessions & how many will I need?

In the early stages, we would usually suggest weekly sessions.

A key aspect of successful therapy is the therapeutic relationship that exists between client and therapist. Therapy is most effective when a client is open, willing, and committed to regular sessions. Change benefits from consistency!

We can offer fortnightly sessions as well; we always aim to work with you to find a solution that fits everyone.

Mental health maintenance sessions tend to happen less often - every other week or once a month, for example. Some clients welcome the opportunity to maintain some contact, especially after some long-term work.

Successful therapy is not a quick fix - it takes time, willingness, and effort. We would usually recommend 6 to 8 as an absolute minimum. However, more complex issues and goals benefit from longer term work.

6

Why online?

We currently are only able to offer online or telephone counselling.

As a person-centered practice, we offer a safe private virtual space, where you can bring whatever, you choose for discussion. Our role is to listen, reflect and help facilitate the exploration of whatever concerns you bring. Through our work together you will gain greater understanding, acceptance, change, and/or growth. We are unable to advise you although we can help with practical solutions where needed.

Online therapy provides an opportunity to talk and work through personal difficulties in a confidential and supportive environment. It allows you to access therapy at a time and place which is convenient for you. You will need to find a private and confidential space where you will not be disturbed or overheard. Clients often find that online therapy fits in better with their work and home commitments and is easier for clients who find it difficult to travel or live in rural areas. It is particularly useful for clients who live with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or social anxieties. Some clients feel more comfortable working online rather than being in the same room as the therapist.