What to Expect from Counselling at SomeOne Cares
At SomeOne Cares, we provide counselling and emotional support to people whose lives have been affected by abuse. We understand that taking the first step towards counselling can feel daunting, and we aim to make the process as welcoming, supportive and straightforward as possible.
Your Initial Assessment
Once we receive your referral, our team will contact you to arrange an initial assessment appointment.
If we initially contact you by phone we will always ask for your verbal consent before sending appointment information by text message or email. Once agreed, we will send confirmation of your appointment and reminders nearer the time. We do not send letters unless you specifically request them.
All initial assessments take place face-to-face. This allows us to consider your safety, understand your individual circumstances and ensure we can offer the most appropriate level of support.
During your assessment, we will ask you some questions about your circumstances and what you hope to gain from counselling. We will also explain how we collect and store your personal information, discuss confidentiality and answer any questions you may have.
For more information about the assessment process, including the information we collect, [click here].
What Happens After Your Assessment?
Following your assessment, you will be placed on our waiting list for a suitable counsellor. We aim to match you with someone who can best support your individual needs.
We understand that waiting for counselling can be difficult, so we will provide updated information about waiting times whenever we speak with you, and we may be able to offer Wellbeing sessions whilst you await counselling.
When a suitable counsellor becomes available, we will contact you to arrange your first appointment.
Your Counselling Sessions
Counselling appointments will usually take place on the same day and at the same time each week, providing consistency and continuity.
Your counselling will be reviewed every eight sessions to ensure it continues to meet your needs and remains beneficial.
We recognise that everyone’s experiences, needs and goals are different. Your counselling will be tailored to you, and you and your counsellor will work together to explore what feels most helpful.
Building a trusting relationship with your counsellor is important. If you feel that your allocated counsellor is not the right fit for you, please let us know. We will work with you to arrange an alternative counsellor.
Returning to Counselling
Leaving our service does not mean the door is closed.
If you feel you need further support in the future, you are welcome to make another referral. We simply ask that you allow some time between periods of counselling to reflect on and process the work you have undertaken.
At SomeOne Cares, our aim is to provide a safe, supportive and respectful environment where you can work towards your own goals, at your own pace.