Your questions answered

Yes — you will see the same counsellor at the same time every week for your sessions.

Counselling is offered in person at our Walton-on-Thames premises or online.

Sessions are available Monday to Friday, during the daytime and evenings. The earliest sessions begin at 9 am and the latest finish at 8 pm.

You should give as much notice as possible. You can arrange to miss two sessions during your counselling year without having to make your weekly contribution.

If you’re unhappy with any aspect of the service, you can email complaints@thecounsellingpartnership.org with details. Complaints are handled in line with their policy and the British Association of Counselling & Psychotherapy’s procedures.

If the counsellor cancels due to illness, holiday, etc., you’ll be notified as soon as possible and won’t be asked to make your weekly contribution for that missed session.

They support adults with issues including depression, anxiety, bereavement, anger, stress, abuse, loss, phobias, PTSD, relationships, self-esteem, trauma and work or career-related issues, or food-related issues. They do not offer couples counselling or therapy for under-18s.

Yes — all counselling is fully confidential, in accordance with BACP guidelines.

After an initial consultation, you’ll be matched with a counsellor based on your needs and availability. Weekly sessions last 50 minutes and take place in person or online. You begin with a block of six sessions and can extend up to a year if you wish. You are not tied in and can finish at any time (closing sessions are recommended).

An initial consultation with a senior counsellor helps determine whether counselling with the organisation is suitable for you. A £30 contribution is requested for this consultation, which can be online or in person.

ou’re asked to make your weekly donation ahead of your session, usually via bank transfer or by bringing cash. Bank details are provided when booking your consultation.

Clients are asked what they can reasonably donate. It costs the charity around £75 to provide each session (private counselling usually costs £60-£110), and the minimum suggested donation is £30 per session wherever possible.

No — GPs may suggest the service, but you don’t need a formal referral. You can contact the organisation directly via their enquiry form, email, or phone.

Yes — you can stop at any time during your counselling, though it’s recommended to arrange a closing session with your counsellor.

Yes — counsellors are fully qualified or at least two years into training, all hold a Certificate to Practise, are members of BACP or UKCP, and have DBS checks. Their work is supervised to ensure professional and ethical practice.