Frequently Asked Questions

Your first session is about getting to know each other and understanding your unique situation. We'll discuss:

• Your current experience with grief and loss
• What brought you to seek support at this time
• Your goals and what you hope to achieve
• How the counselling process works
• Any questions or concerns you have

This initial consultation is free and gives us both a chance to see if we're a good fit for working together.

There's no set timeline for grief - everyone's journey is different. Some people find benefit in just a few sessions, while others work with me for several months. Factors that might influence duration include:

• The nature of your loss
• Your existing support network
• Previous experiences with loss
• Your personal coping style and resilience

We'll regularly review your progress and adjust our approach as needed.

While these terms are often used interchangeably, there are subtle differences:

• Bereavement support typically refers to immediate practical and emotional support following a death
• Grief counselling is a more structured therapeutic approach that addresses the ongoing emotional impact of loss

I provide both types of support, adapting my approach to meet you wherever you are in your journey.

No, grief extends far beyond death. I support people dealing with many types of loss including:

• Relationship breakdowns and divorce
• Job loss or career changes
• Health diagnoses and physical changes
• Loss of home or familiar environment
• Fertility struggles and pregnancy loss
• Loss of independence or capabilities
• Pet loss

Any significant loss can trigger grief, and all types of grief deserve support and understanding.

Individual sessions provide:

• Complete privacy and confidentiality
• Personalized attention and tailored approach
• Flexibility to work at your own pace
• Focus on your specific situation and needs

Group sessions offer:

• Connection with others who understand your experience
• Shared learning and different perspectives
• Reduced feelings of isolation
• Cost-effective support option

Many clients find a combination of both approaches most helpful.

I believe everyone deserves access to grief support, regardless of their financial situation. I offer:

• Free initial consultation
• Sliding scale fees based on income
• Concessions for students, unemployed, and those on benefits
• Payment plans for ongoing sessions

Please contact me to discuss pricing that works for your situation. Get in touch for detailed pricing information.

Absolutely. Online sessions can be just as effective as in-person counselling and offer several advantages:

• Access support from anywhere in Scotland or the UK
• No travel time or transport costs
• Comfort of being in your own space
• Flexible scheduling options

I use secure, encrypted video platforms to ensure your privacy and confidentiality are maintained.

I am a Certified Grief Educator and qualified coach with specialized training in:

• Grief and bereavement counselling
• Solution-focused brief therapy
• Trauma-informed practice
• Group facilitation
• Workplace bereavement support

I maintain regular supervision and continue professional development to ensure I provide the best possible support.

Consider seeking support if you're experiencing:

• Intense emotions that feel overwhelming
• Difficulty functioning in daily life
• Isolation from friends and family
• Physical symptoms like sleep problems or appetite changes
• Feeling stuck or unable to move forward
• Relationship difficulties related to your loss
• Thoughts of self-harm

Remember, seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. You don't have to wait until you're in crisis to reach out.

That's completely normal and okay. You set the pace in our sessions. We can:

• Start with practical coping strategies
• Focus on current day-to-day challenges
• Work on self-care and emotional regulation
• Address your loss when you feel ready

There's no pressure to share more than you're comfortable with at any given time.