Frequently Asked Questions
Will what I say be Confidential?
I treat all information disclosed to me as confidential. Any information my supervisor receives is also treated as confidential, protecting any personally identifiable and sensitive information.
Should I feel a client is either a danger to themselves or others, I am obliged to inform outside agencies but would try, whenever possible, to discuss this with my client first.
What is supervision?
Supervision is a form of consultative support for counsellors to discuss their work regularly with someone who is experienced in counselling and qualified in counselling supervision. The task is to work together to ensure and develop the efficacy of the counsellor/client relationship. Any information my supervisor receives is treated as confidential protecting any personally identifiable and sensitive information.
How often and for how long will I need to come?
Appointments are usually at the same day and time each week, but there is some flexibility. Sessions last for one hour.
I offer all prospective clients an assessment session.This provides both of us with the opportunity of deciding if we wish to work together. We would then agree on an initial number of sessions and at the end of this period review the situation again.
If it is decided not to continue working together I will attempt to provide, wherever possible, alternative counsellors or agencies to contact.
The number of sessions depends on what you are bringing to counselling. Some people find that 6 sessions are enough while others may prefer to look at things in more depth or have on going support and have longer term counselling.
How much will it cost?
My fee is £40 per appointment. Where possible, I operate a sliding scale of fees for those on low incomes. Payment by an individual is made by cash or cheque at the end of each session.
If you wish to cancel an appointment, I would appreciate 24 hours notice if possible. I reserve the right to charge a levy for any unattended appointments which have not been cancelled.
How do I make an appointment?
If you would like to make an appointment or ask me any questions, please contact me either by e-mail at
jennypoirier@counsellor.com or by telephone on 07976 209786. There is a confidential voicemail if I am unable to take your call. All messages will be responded to as soon as I can but please bear in mind that I may be with clients so cannot always reply immediately.
What happens at an appointment?
The first 'assessment' appointment is a chance for us to meet and discuss the issues that you want to bring and what you would like to get out of coming for counselling. You may find that I ask more questions in the first session than usual as I need to gain an understanding of your background and history and your current situation.
It is important for us to both feel comfortable working together.
If we decide to go ahead with further appointments, we would agree a time to meet, usually weekly.
There is no obligation to continue. Sometimes a person may decide that counselling is not for them or it may be more appropriate for you to contact another organisation or counsellor.
Some people find it helpful to have an initial appointment with more than one counsellor and then make a decision as to who they feel most comfortable with.
You may also find it helpful to read the information sheet published by BACP
'What to expect from counselling and psychotherapy'.
When are you available?
I am available for daytime and evening appointments in Muswell Hill, subject to availability.
How do I make the most of counselling?
You can get the best results by:
being open
saying how you are really feeling
giving me honest feedback on how you experience the counselling, what is good and if there is anything you don't like
Good counselling should feel safe and enable you to talk about things that you may not feel able to talk about to family and friends.
For general counselling and cancer counselling by a counsellor in Muswell Hill N10, North London( 07976 209786
+ jennypoirier@counsellor.com 
