I have never been to a counsellor before and don't know what to expect
Each counsellor is different and will have their own approach. Mine is simple, direct and open. I aim to create an atmosphere of care and confidence, where you can express your fears, yours doubts and stresses openly, free from any judgement on my part.
Consider the first session as a meeting of minds for you to decide if I'm the right person to accompany you and for me to determine the key issues that need addressing and how we can move forwards together. Some sessions will simply involve talking therapy, while others may include additional solutions such as art therapy, NLP or hypnosis, with your full prior approval.
How can I decide which is the right approach for me?
I am fully qualified in several methods so can offer a multitude of solutions. The specific reasons for your consultation and your personal history will help me to determine which is the most appropriate option for moving forwards. I may use a single approach, or a combination, and we will always discuss the choices together.
What is the difference between counselling and therapy?
These terms are often used inter changeably however there are fundamental differences.
Counselling tends to focus more on short-term work to address a single issue. The aim is to provide concrete solutions that alleviate the symptoms and anxieties you are currently experiencing.
Therapy is generally a longer process as it examines your past in greater depth and considers the related emotional issues and experiences that are shaping your present. The objective will be to resolve deep-seated issues in order to envisage your future in a new way.
How many sessions will I need?
There is no defined number of sessions as it will depend on your reasons for consulting and the expected outcome, where you are on your life path, and how rapidly you progress in each session. For counselling it will often be between 10 and 20 sessions, whereas therapy can be longer term or even open ended. We will always agree together on an initial number of sessions, after which we will review your situation and decide whether to continue now or in the future.
What if I don't get better?
There is always a solution and a way of progressing towards a brighter future. The key is to find the right person to help. Each counsellor has their own personality and approach that may or may not suit you, so it's important to find the person who's right for you. It's also important to discuss goals so that you know where you're aiming to be, and to make plans to get there so that you can see your improvements along the way.
What if we don't get on?
Counselling is by nature very personal. It is vital that you feel completely at ease with the person who accompanies you and trust their ability to help you. If I'm not the right person for you, I have a network of colleagues who may correspond to you better.
You are always free to move forwards with a different person or indeed decide to stop at any time.
Is it better for me to see a man or a woman?
Again, this is a personal choice and will be defined by what feels right for you. There is no set rule and all trained therapists should have the same empathy and non-judgemental approach.
Are the sessions reimbursed by the social security system?
The French social security system does not reimburse counselling sessions, but many private health companies (mutuelles) reimburse part or all of the sessions. Give yours a call to find out.
What if I miss a session?
Appointments must be cancelled at least 48 hours before, otherwise the full fee is payable.
Do you only do face-to face sessions?
I offer both face-to-face and online sessions (Facetime, Skype, Zoom, phone call). If you have limited time or don't live close to Antibes, you may prefer online sessions.