What is the first session like?

Coming to counselling can be a nerve racking experience, especially if you do not know what to expect. Our initial consultation will be a chance for us to meet, answer any questions you have about the process, discuss what it is that you would like to get out counselling, and to get to know each other a little. We will take things at your pace as it is important for you to feel comfortable before opening up. We can then book in further sessions or you can go away and have a think about it.

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What can counselling help with?
Counselling provides a safe and supportive space to explore what you are experiencing. I can offer support with anxiety, depression, bereavement and loss, stress, burnout, life changes and trauma. I also have a particular interest in supporting people with the emotional impacts of living with chronic health conditions, including Cancer, ME/CFS, Long Covid and MS.

What happens in a counselling session?
Sessions provide a space to talk openly about whatever is bringing you to counselling. Together, we can explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences at a pace that feels right for you. We might try out some self-compassion or mindfulness practices if this interests you. It is important to know that counselling isn't about me giving advice or telling you what you should do. Instead, I will listen without judgment and help you develop a deeper understanding of yourself, so that you can find your own way forward.

How much does counselling cost?

Sessions are £55 for 50 minutes. Payment can be made by cash during the session or by bank transfer in advance.

 

What type of counselling do you offer?
I offer Integrative Psychotherapeutic Counselling, drawing on humanistic, psychodynamic, behavioural and embodied approaches. I tailor our work to your individual needs, with compassion and self-acceptance at its heart.

 

What qualifications and experience do you have?

I am a UKCP accredited Psychotherapeutic Counsellor. I trained at Matrix College of Counselling & Psychotherapy, where I completed a BSC (Hons). I also have a background in domiciliary care and have volunteered for a cancer support charity for a number of years. I work to high ethical standards, maintain my UKCP accreditation, hold an enhanced DBS certificate, am credentialed by Mind, and undertake regular clinical supervision and training.

Do you offer online counselling?
Yes. I offer online counselling to adults throughout the UK using Doxy, a secure telehealth platform that is fee to use. Many clients choose to have online appointments as they value being able to access counselling from the comfort of home, especially if pain or fatigue is a barrier to travelling.

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Do you offer face-to-face counselling?
Yes. I offer face-to-face counselling from my office in central Norwich. This is a discreet, private and clam space for us to work in. Pay & Display parking is available nearby on St Giles.

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The office is on the first floor and unfortunately is not wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is a concern, online counselling may be a suitable alternative, and we can discuss this when you get in touch.

How many sessions will I need?
There is no fixed number of sessions. We can work together on an ongoing basis, depending on your needs. This can be particularly helpful when working with anxiety, depression or trauma, as it allows us to take the time needed to build a safe, trusting, trauma-informed therapeutic relationship. You can end counselling at any time. I suggest working towards a planned ending over a number of weeks so that we have an opportunity to bring our work to a meaningful ending.

Is counselling confidential?
Yes. Our sessions are confidential and are not recorded or shared. There are some circumstances where confidentiality may need to be broken, such as safeguarding concerns, serious risk of harm, legal requirements or clinical supervision, but we would discuss this at the time and proceed in a way that most protects your privacy. 

What if I need to cancel?
I ask for at least 48 hours' notice if you need to cancel. Sessions cancelled with less than 48 hours' notice are charged at the full fee.

How do I know if we're a good fit?
Choosing a counsellor is a personal decision, and finding someone you feel comfortable with is important. The initial consultation gives us an opportunity to meet, talk about what you would like support with, and get a feel for whether we could work well together. You can then either book in for more appointments or go away and think about it. You don't need to have made a decision before getting in touch.

How do I get started?
If you are considering counselling in Norwich or online counselling anywhere in the UK, please get in touch to arrange an initial consultation. Please send your enquiry via the Get In Touch button below or email CorinneRichards@protonmail.com.​ It would be helpful to know a brief outline of your reason for counselling, and any preferences you may have, such as frequency and online or in-person appointments.

 

I will reply to every enquiry and I aim to do this within one week. Please check your junk folder if you have not heard back from me.