Thinking About Counselling? Start Here.

You don't have to decide everything today.

If you've found yourself here, there's a good chance this isn't the first time you've thought about counselling. Perhaps you've searched before, looked at a few websites, then quietly closed the browser. Perhaps someone close to you has suggested talking to somebody. Or perhaps you've simply reached a point where carrying everything on your own feels harder than it used to. Whatever has brought you here, you're welcome. If, after reading this page, you have a question or simply want to see whether counselling feels right for you, I'd be happy to hear from you.👉 Get in Touch

You don't have to be falling apart.

One of the biggest myths about counselling is that people only come when they've reached breaking point. Some do. Many don't. Sometimes people get in touch because they're grieving. Sometimes because they're exhausted. Sometimes because life has quietly become smaller than it used to be. You might be struggling with anxiety, relationships, work, fatherhood, loss, confidence or simply a feeling that something isn't quite right.You don't have to justify wanting support.If something matters to you, it's worth talking about.

"What if I don't know what to say?"

You don't need to prepare. You don't need a list. You don't need to explain your whole life in the first five minutes. One of the most common things I hear at the beginning of a first session is:"I'm not really sure where to start." That's perfectly okay. Finding the words is often part of the process. We'll simply begin wherever feels comfortable.

Not Sure Whether What You're Feeling Is "Enough"?

Many people arrive here wondering whether what they're experiencing is something counselling can actually help with.

You might be feeling constantly anxious. Exhausted by work. Struggling after a bereavement. Finding yourself angry all the time. Wondering whether you're burnt out, depressed, grieving or simply overwhelmed.

You don't need to work that out before getting in touch.

If it would help, I've put together a guide exploring the most common reasons people come to counselling and the experiences people often bring into therapy.

→ Explore Common Reasons People Come to Counselling

"What actually happens if I contact you?"

It's much simpler than many people imagine.

If you decide to get in touch, either by email or through my contact form, I'll reply as soon as I can.

Rather than booking you straight into counselling, we'll usually arrange a free 30–45 minute introductory conversation. This can take place in person in Manchester or online, depending on what works best for you.

The purpose of this meeting isn't to begin therapy straight away. It's simply an opportunity for us to get to know each other.

We'll talk about what's brought you here, what you're hoping counselling might help with, and I'll answer any questions you have about the way I work.

It's also an opportunity for you to decide whether I feel like the right counsellor for you. Finding someone you feel comfortable with is important, and there is never any obligation to continue if it doesn't feel like the right fit.

If we both feel we'd work well together, we'll arrange your first counselling session.

From there, each counselling session lasts 50 minutes and provides a confidential space to explore whatever feels important to you, at a pace that feels comfortable.

Some people arrive knowing exactly what they want to talk about.

Others have no idea where to begin.

Both are completely normal.

"What if counselling isn't right for me?"

That's a completely reasonable question. Counselling isn't about persuading someone to stay.I t's about finding the right support. If, after we've spoken, I genuinely believe another therapist or service would suit your needs better, I'll tell you. Finding the right person is far more important than simply booking an appointment.

"Will you tell me what to do?"

My role isn't to give advice or tell you how to live your life. Instead, I'll work alongside you, helping you make sense of your experiences, understand what's happening beneath the surface and find a way forward that feels right for you. The answers aren't mine. They're yours. Counselling creates the space to discover them.

"Do I have to talk about my childhood?"

Only if it feels helpful.Some people spend time exploring early experiences because they help explain what's happening today.Others focus almost entirely on current challenges.There isn't a script.Your counselling is shaped around you, not around a fixed formula.

"What if I cry?"

You might. Or you might not. Some people become emotional during their first session. Others don't cry at all. Some laugh. Some apologise for talking too much. Others apologise for not saying enough. There is no right way to do counselling. You don't need to perform. You don't need to impress anyone. You only need to be yourself.

Everything we talk about is confidential.

Counselling works because it's a safe space to speak openly. Everything you share remains confidential, with the rare legal and ethical exceptions where someone's safety may be at immediate risk. If those situations ever arose, I would always aim to discuss them with you wherever possible.

How much does counselling cost?

Counselling sessions are £60 for 50 minutes, whether you choose to meet in person in Manchester or online anywhere in the UK.There are no packages to commit to.No pressure to book a certain number of sessions.Some people come for a few weeks.Others work together for much longer.We'll regularly review how things are going together.

Perhaps the hardest part...

...isn't counselling. It's deciding to send that first message. If you've read this far, you've already taken a step that many people spend months or even years thinking about. Whether you decide to get in touch today, next week or sometime in the future is entirely your decision. Whenever that time comes, I'll be here.

👉 Get in Touch

Looking for support with something specific?

Although every counselling journey is unique, many people arrive because they're struggling with a particular challenge or life experience.

If you'd like to learn more about the areas I specialise in, you may find these pages helpful before deciding whether counselling is right for you.

Men's Counselling in Manchester

Support for stress, anxiety, burnout, relationships, life transitions, confidence and emotional wellbeing for men.

Counselling for Fathers

Support for fathers navigating separation, co-parenting, new parenthood, family relationships, loss and the unique pressures of being a dad.

Grief & Bereavement Counselling

Compassionate support following the death of someone important, including suicide bereavement, anticipatory grief and complex grief.

Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapy

Counselling for autistic adults, people with ADHD and anyone exploring life through a neurodivergent lens.