Frequently Asked Questions | NI Counselling

Question 1

Do I need a GP referral?

Accepted Answer

No. You can contact us directly. You do not need a referral from your GP or any other healthcare professional.

Question 2

How do I book an appointment?

Accepted Answer

Complete a referral form on our website. We'll ask a few brief questions to match you with the right therapist for your needs and location.

Question 3

How quickly can I be seen?

Accepted Answer

We aim to offer appointments as quickly as possible. Availability varies by therapist and location, and we'll always share estimated wait times when you enquire.

Question 4

What happens after I make a referral?

Accepted Answer

A member of our team will be in touch to discuss your needs and arrange your first appointment. There is no pressure to commit straight away.

Question 5

How much is therapy?

Accepted Answer

Fees range from £45 to £75 per session based on your therapist's qualifications and experience. Full details are on our Pricing page.

Question 6

How long does a session last?

Accepted Answer

Sessions last 50 minutes, the standard length across the counselling profession.

Question 7

How many sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

This varies from person to person. Some find six to eight sessions helpful; others benefit from longer-term support. Your therapist will discuss this with you. There is no fixed commitment.

Question 8

Can I attend online instead of in person?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer online and telephone therapy for clients who prefer their own space, have a busy schedule, or cannot travel to one of our locations.

Question 9

Will my therapist be qualified and insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All therapists hold recognised qualifications, are members of bodies such as BACP or UKCP, are fully insured, and have completed an Access NI disclosure check.

Question 10

What if I don't feel comfortable with my therapist?

Accepted Answer

Please let us know. We can talk it through and arrange for you to see a different therapist if needed. Your comfort and safety matter to us.

Question 11

What if I need to cancel or reschedule?

Accepted Answer

Please let us know as soon as possible. With more than 24 hours' notice we can refund or reschedule. Less than 24 hours' notice, or non-attendance, is non-refundable.

Question 12

Is what I share kept confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Everything discussed in sessions is treated with the strictest confidence. Your therapist will not share information about you without your consent.

Question 13

Are there any limits to confidentiality?

Accepted Answer

In rare circumstances confidentiality may need to be broken, for example if there is a serious risk of harm to you or someone else. Your therapist will explain this fully in your first session.

Question 14

Can I have therapy online rather than in person?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All therapists offer online sessions via video call. For face-to-face appointments, we have locations across Belfast, Antrim, Bangor, Newtownabbey, Carrickfergus, Magherafelt, Coleraine, and Banbridge.

Your Questions, Answered

What to Expect

Do I need a GP referral?

How do I book an appointment?

How quickly can I be seen?

What happens after I make a referral?

How much is therapy?

Do I need a GP referral?

How do I book an appointment?

How quickly can I be seen?

What happens after I make a referral?

How much is therapy?

Getting Started

How long does a session last?

How many sessions will I need?

Can I attend online instead of in person?

Will my therapist be qualified and insured?

How long does a session last?

How many sessions will I need?

Can I attend online instead of in person?

Will my therapist be qualified and insured?

Therapy & Privacy

What if I don't feel comfortable with my therapist?

What if I need to cancel or reschedule?

Is what I share kept confidential?

Are there any limits to confidentiality?

Can I have therapy online rather than in person?

What if I don't feel comfortable with my therapist?

What if I need to cancel or reschedule?

Is what I share kept confidential?

Are there any limits to confidentiality?

Can I have therapy online rather than in person?