Question 1

How do I book or cancel a session?

Accepted Answer

To make a booking please either book online under the Online Bookings tab or feel free to call me on 07732775387 or email jothacker@protonmail.com 
If I do not answer immediately I may be with another client. Please leave a message and I will call you back. Emails will be responded to within 24 hours.

To cancel a booking I ask for a minimum of 24 hours notice. You can do this by emailing me at jothacker@protonmail.com or calling 07732755387. If I do not answer immediately I may be with another client. Please leave a message and I will call you back. Emails will be responded to within 24 hours.

Question 2

How many sessions will I need and do I have to attend sessions weekly?

Accepted Answer

This is different for everyone depending on the issues you are facing and your personal requirements. Some people benefit from short term counselling (as an example 6 sessions) whilst others benefit from longer term counselling. We will have regular reviews which give you the opportunity to reflect about where you are within your counselling process and ensure it is meeting your needs. If you would like to end your counselling sessions you can choose to do so at any point.

In terms of frequency, ideally therapy works best when you see a counsellor on a weekly basis. However, this is not always possible and many clients maintain fortnightly appointments. Towards the end of therapy we can discuss what suits you best and sessions may become more infrequent.

Question 3

Do online sessions take place on a secure and confidential network?

Accepted Answer

Yes. I use a platform called Doxy which is fully secure and encrypted, ensuring third parties cannot access our sessions. I send you a link when you book and you click on the link at the designated time. You do not need to download anything.

Question 4

How do I pay?

Accepted Answer

You can pay online at the time of booking, or I accept payment by BACS into my bank account 24 hours prior to your session. These details will be sent to you at time of booking. If you prefer to pay another way then please let me know and we can discuss this.

Question 5

What if I need to cancel on the day?

Accepted Answer

Appointments are charged at full price if cancelled on the day, this is because I am unable to re-fill the slot at such short notice.  In severe extenuating circumstances please contact me via email jothacker@protonmail.com and we can discuss this.

Question 6

Can I bring a friend with me?

Accepted Answer

I only see clients one to one. To get the most from therapy it is important to give yourself time and space to be able to talk completely openly without others being with you. Having someone else with you will impact what you say and how much you open up.  If you require a carer to attend with you please email me at jothacker@protonmail.com or call on 07732775387 so we can discuss this.

Question 7

Do you have parking?

Accepted Answer

Yes I have a space either on the drive or outside the property on the road

Question 8

Do you offer refreshments at sessions?

Accepted Answer

Whilst I don't provide tea/coffee I always have water available in the garden room.

Question 9

Do I have to come into your house?

Accepted Answer

No. The garden room is accessed via the back garden through the conservatory door and is a completely private space. I do not have children at home (just two cats who are not allowed in the garden room) and whilst my husband does work from home he will not meet with you at any appointment time. 
The only time you would go into the house is if you should need to use the downstairs toilet.

Question 10

I cannot find the answer to my question, can you help me?

Accepted Answer

Yes of course. For anything not answered here please give me a call on 07732775387 or email me at jothacker@protonmail.com

Jo Thacker Counselling MBACP
TEL: 07732775387

Frequently asked questions