01 / A BUSY MIND
“I keep going over the same things.”
What keeps coming back to your mind? You could begin with one recent moment, rather than trying to explain everything at once.
Westcliff-on-Sea · Southend · Online
You don’t need
all the words.
Just a beginning.
Perhaps you know what’s wrong. Perhaps you just know things don’t feel right. Either is a place to start.
Private counselling for adults and couples.
A place to begin.
MNCPS (Acc)Professional membership
In person or from homeOnline and telephone options
A first conversationAsk your questions before booking
Meet the person, not just the profile
What would you like to be different?
There’s no perfect answer.
Gary is an integrative counsellor with a particular interest in CBT. His work includes anxiety, low mood, anger and relationship difficulties.
Choosing a counsellor is personal. Alongside qualifications, it matters whether you feel able to talk to them. Your first enquiry can be a chance to ask Gary about his approach and see whether it feels like a good fit.
02 / FEELING DISTANT
“I don’t quite feel like myself.”
What feels different lately? You might want to talk about your days, your relationships, or something you miss.
03 / FINDING A START
“I’m not sure how to explain it.”
You can say exactly that in your enquiry. You don’t need a carefully prepared account of everything that has happened.
From wondering to getting in touch
One small step.
Then decide what comes next.
Keep it simple.
A short call or text can be enough to ask about counselling. There’s a suggested opening message below if a blank screen feels difficult.
Make room for questions.
Ask about Gary’s way of working, session length, appointment times and anything that would help you feel more prepared.
Check the practical details.
Before booking, confirm the fee, where you will meet and the cancellation arrangements. Take time to consider whether you would like to go ahead.
Before you book
A little clarity can help.
Some questions are easier to ask when they’re written down. Here are a few places to start.
£45 listed session fee
Gary’s directory profile lists concessions for unemployed clients. Confirm your fee and session length with him before booking.
What could I say in my first message?
Try: “Hello Gary, I’m thinking about counselling and would like to ask about appointments.” You can add a little about what brings you here, if you wish.
Can I speak to Gary from home?
His listed options include online and telephone sessions, in-person appointments and home visits. Ask which arrangements are available for you.
How long is a session?
Check the session length with Gary when you enquire. You can also ask how often you might meet and how you would decide whether to continue.
What if I’m looking for couples counselling?
Gary lists couples among the clients he works with. Mention this when you contact him so you can discuss the format, fee and availability together.
What else should I ask before starting?
You may want to ask how confidentiality works and its limits, how appointments are cancelled or changed, and any access requirements for meeting in person.
Whenever you’re ready
Your first message
can be a simple hello.
Contact Gary directly to ask about private counselling and current appointment availability.
A starting point, if you need one
“Hello Gary, I’m considering counselling. Could you let me know how to get started?”
07982 824173
Call or send a text.