Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Online Counselling
&
Session Format
Do online counselling sessions really work?
Yes. Research consistently shows that online counselling can be as effective as in-person sessions for many concerns, particularly when sessions are structured, relational and consistent.
Online work allows you to engage from a familiar environment, reduces logistical barriers, and often makes it easier to sustain regular sessions over time.
Are all sessions online?
Yes. All sessions are conducted online via Google Meet, unless mutually agreed otherwise. A secure meeting link will be shared prior to the scheduled session.
Do sessions have to be on video?
Video sessions are preferred, as seeing facial expressions and non-verbal cues is an important part of psychological work.
If video is not possible, audio-only sessions can be considered. In such cases, both parties remain audio-only rather than one person being on camera and the other not, as this helps maintain balance and comfort in the session.
What to Expect from Counselling Sessions
What does the first session look like?
The first session is a space to understand what is bringing you in and to get a feel for how we might work together.
You do not need to arrive with a clear narrative or solutions. The focus is on gathering context, understanding concerns and beginning to shape goals. Interventions may or may not be offered in the first session, depending on what is appropriate.
What if I don’t know what to say in a session?
That is completely okay.
You can begin with something small or recent, or simply say that you are unsure where to start. If you’re unsure where to begin, I’ll offer gentle prompts and questions to help you find a starting point, without pressure.
How many sessions should I try before deciding whether to continue?
It is generally recommended to allow at least three sessions before deciding whether to continue with any practitioner.
This allows enough time to understand concerns, working styles and whether the process feels like a good fit.
How long is each session?
Individual Counselling sessions are 50 minutes
Couples Counselling sessions are 60 minutes
Individual Wellness Sessions are 30 minutes
More details are available on the Services page.
how do you approach goals and direction in counselling?
Early in our work together, we take time to clarify what you are hoping for and what effective functioning would look like in your life.
Goals are collaborative and grounded in psychological reality. They may involve stabilisation, insight, behavioural change, relational improvement or professional effectiveness.
Progress is reviewed periodically to ensure movement is occurring. The intention is not endless reflection, but meaningful development that increases clarity, resilience and functional strength over time.
Counselling supports growth, responsibility and measurable psychological progress.
Counselling vs wellness Sessions &
How The Process works
What is the difference between counselling and wellness sessions?
Wellness sessions are for individuals who want a space to reflect, maintain balance and strengthen everyday functioning.
Counselling sessions are more intensive and are intended for those looking to heal, process emotional difficulties, or work through deeper patterns affecting their life or relationships.
If deeper concerns emerge during a wellness session, a counselling session may be recommended so the work remains supportive and appropriate.
Will I be given things to do between sessions?
At times, you may be invited to reflect, journal or try small practices between sessions.
These are offered as tools to support insight and skill-building. They are not meant to create pressure or obligation but meant to serve your process and support independence.
How long does counselling usually take?
Counselling is a process rather than a quick fix.
Since there is no fixed timeline, some concerns may be addressed over a few sessions, such as navigating a specific decision or transition. Others may take longer, particularly when working with patterns, relationships or emotional regulation. Goals are discussed collaboratively and revisited as work progresses so that changes remain meaningful and sustainable.
How do we measure progress?
Progress is reviewed together.
Progress is reviewed through ongoing conversations, reflection on goals, changes in daily functioning, emotional regulation and increased clarity or confidence over time by comparing it to the goals we took time to clarify at the start of counselling. The process is collaborative rather than checklist-driven.
Scope of Care
Do I need medication?
Medication is not prescribed as part of counselling.
Some individuals benefit from medication alongside counselling, while others do not need it. If medication becomes relevant, this can be discussed and appropriate referrals can be suggested.
What if I am in acute distress?
This service does not provide 24-hour crisis support and is not suited for medical or psychiatric emergencies. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing acute distress requiring urgent intervention, please contact local emergency services or a crisis helpline in your area.
Are Sessions Confidential?
Yes. Sessions are confidential and handled in accordance with professional ethical standards.
Sessions are not recorded by the practitioner. Clients are requested not to record sessions without prior written agreement.
Corporate or group wellness sessions may be recorded only with prior written agreement and solely for internal organisational purposes, without intent to distribute or use for marketing.
Confidentiality may be ethically or legally limited in situations involving risk of harm to self or others, or where disclosure is required by law. If such a situation arises, it would be handled with care and professional responsibility.
Bookings, Boundaries & Professional Services
How do payments and bookings work?
Sessions must be booked and paid for in advance through the website to confirm your scheduled time. Once payment is completed, you will receive an email confirmation.
Sessions must be cancelled or rescheduled directly through the website at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled session time. If a session is missed without prior notice or cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice, the session fee is non-refundable and non-transferable. A new booking and payment will be required to schedule another session.
Where applicable, approved refunds are processed manually and may take 5–7 business days to reflect, depending on the payment provider.
Why do I need to create an account?
Creating an account is free and requires a one-time setup. It protects continuity of care, maintains session history, simplifies rebooking and allows access to booking records.
Why do you collect address details?
Name, email and phone number are required for session communication. Address details are collected for billing and transaction processing purposes and may be used for invoicing or insurance reimbursement documentation if requested.
Can I contact you between sessions?
Brief logistical communication is welcome. Ongoing therapeutic work is reserved for sessions to maintain clarity, boundaries and effectiveness.
Do you work with corporates or organisations?
Yes.
Professional and organisational services include leadership consultancy, group leadership workshops and psychoeducative wellness sessions.
Details are discussed based on organisational needs and scope. You may reach out via email (info@albatrosswellbeing.com) to explore this further.
Is leadership or organisational work therapy?
No.
Leadership consultancy and organisational wellness sessions are psychologically informed but are not therapy. They are designed for professional and organisational development within clearly defined boundaries that focus on insight, functioning, leadership development, and systems rather than clinical treatment.
If I’m unsure what I need, what should I do?
If you are unsure where you fit or what you need, clarity often emerges through conversation. You are not expected to have everything figured out before reaching out.
You may book a session directly or contact me via email to explore what might be most appropriate.