When you come into counselling you may be unsure what to expect. The information on this page answers the most frequently asked questions. We hope you find it useful.

Counselling is not about giving advice, it is an activity which seeks to help people towards constructive change and growth in any or every aspect of their lives, based upon a supportive relationship within agreed boundaries. Your counsellor provides a safe place where you can talk about what is troubling you. They will listen carefully and help you express your feelings, which may be preventing you from thinking clearly about the issue. They can also help you explore the options open to you.

Sessions last for 50 minutes. Your counsellor will discuss with you how often and when you will meet;the norm is meeting once a week. Since we have no waiting room we ask that you do not arrive more than 5 minutes before your appointment time. If you arrive late, your session will still end on time.

If you are unable to keep an appointment we ask that you give 24 hours notice otherwise you (or your employer if attending through a staff counselling scheme) will be charged for the session. If you do not arrive for an appointment your counsellor will normally telephone or write to you.

Strict confidentiality is always maintained and is an essential part of the counselling process. Rowan counsellors will not pass on personal information to anyone outside Rowan unless:

• You give express consent to disclose information
• Your counsellor believes that you or a third party is in serious danger
• Your counsellor would be liable to civil or criminal court procedure if the information was not disclosed

In all cases you will be encouraged to pass on the information to the relevant person or agency yourself.

In line with professional requirements, counsellors may discuss sessions with a supervisor external to Rowan. In this process the identity of the client is not revealed.

When you wish to finish your counselling, we would appreciate if this was conveyed to your counsellor in a personal session rather than by telephone or non-appearance.

Your counsellor will ask you to complete a feedback form at the end of your counselling, to be completed in the session or posted back to us in the envelope provided.

Our fees increase annually in October.

It is essential for counsellors to be able to keep records on clients and their sessions. All clients engaging in counselling at Rowan are asked to formally agree (by signature) to this. If a client will not sign, only one session can be offered.

Counselling notes may record background information and key issues discussed in the sessions. These will vary in length and detail. Points of concern are also noted. These notes are kept separate from personal details.

If you are dissatisfied or have any concerns with your counselling please discuss this with your counsellor. If you continue to be dissatisfied, you can contact the Customer Service Manager at Rowan.