Questions about counselling

You can contact me directly by phone, email or the short enquiry form to arrange an initial conversation or appointment. We can discuss what brings you to counselling, practical questions and whether working together feels suitable.

No. You can contact me directly to arrange an appointment; a referral from your doctor is not required.

People seek psychotherapy for emotional distress, relationship difficulties, mental health concerns or personal growth. At Merton Counselling, the work is individual and shaped around your needs. We can discuss whether my approach and experience are a suitable fit for you.

People may seek support with anxiety and stress, low mood, relationship or family difficulties, trauma and difficult experiences, self-esteem, grief and loss, life transitions, or the emotional impact of illness or chronic pain. You can also come to understand yourself more fully. We will discuss the support you need and whether this is the right setting for it.

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No. Some people arrive with a specific difficulty or goal; others only know that they feel anxious, low, overwhelmed or stuck. We can begin with what you notice now.

We will talk about what has brought you to counselling, what you hope for and any concerns about beginning. I will explain confidentiality, practical arrangements and how I work. It is also an opportunity to decide whether the fit feels right.

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You do not need to bring anything specific or prepare a complete account of your experiences. You can begin with what feels manageable. It is normal to feel nervous, and we can talk about any concerns you have about starting.

There is no single answer. It depends on what you want help with and how the work develops. We’ll review how the work is going and discuss whether you want to continue.

Sessions are usually one hour. We will confirm the session length and practical arrangements together before you begin.

Sessions are typically weekly, at a consistent time agreed together at the beginning. Regular appointments help provide continuity. We can discuss the frequency that is appropriate for your needs and review it as the work develops.

Please contact me for the current fee and payment arrangements before booking. We will agree these before sessions begin.

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If you need to cancel or rearrange an appointment, please give at least 24 hours’ notice so the time can be offered to someone else.

For cancellations with less than 24 hours’ notice or missed appointments, the session fee applies. Please settle this within 24 hours of the scheduled appointment. If you are facing difficulties, please get in touch so we can discuss them.

The practice is in County Wexford, midway between Arklow and Gorey, with ample free parking. Sessions are by appointment, and I’ll share the exact address and arrival information privately before your first visit.

Yes. Live video sessions are available to adults across Ireland where online counselling is suitable. You will need a private space, reliable internet and a suitable device.

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Psychotherapy is a collaborative process between you and a trained therapist. It offers space to explore thoughts, feelings, behaviours and relationships, develop self-awareness and understand difficulties more fully. The work can support personal growth and help you find ways of responding that fit your life.

There are different approaches to psychotherapy. My approach is humanistic and integrative: the relationship is central, and the work is adapted to you. Where relevant, I may draw on practical behavioural or cognitive ideas. We can discuss how I work during our first meeting.

The terms overlap, and both involve talking with a trained professional about your experiences and wellbeing. Counselling may focus on a current difficulty, while psychotherapy may involve exploring longer-standing patterns or experiences. In practice, the focus and duration are agreed around what you need.

Progress looks different for everyone. You may notice changes in your mood, how you cope, your relationships or your understanding of yourself. We will check in regularly about what is helping, what is difficult and whether the focus needs to change. You can raise concerns at any time.

Yes. Therapy is voluntary, and you can choose to stop at any time. Where possible, it can be helpful to discuss an ending together so there is time to review the work, talk about your decision and consider any further support you may want.