FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there free parking?

Yes, there is free off-street parking.

Do you have disability access?

There are facilities to do therapy on the ground floor, where there is wheelchair access and a disabled toilet. This can be arranged at the time of making the initial appointment.

I’m already feeling low and have heard psychotherapy and counselling can be upsetting. What if I end up feeling worse than I do now?
Psychotherapy and Counselling can, at times, feel like you are on a roller coaster as you come to realise things that may be upsetting. In most cases, having the opportunity to talk and work through these realisations with a therapist can be beneficial. You have the opportunity to understand yourself better and make different decisions or life choices in the future if you wish. In the initial assessment, we will discuss any concerns that you have.
My family/friends say I need therapy but I don’t think I do, so what’s the point?
If you are not ready to fully engage in psychotherapy or counselling, then it is not likely to benefit you. If you are only going to please someone or stop them from suggesting therapy, you could, in fact, end up resenting the sessions. If, however, you are curious, attending an assessment session may help you to make up your mind.
Are there any useful Apps or websites that I can use while waiting or during therapy?

There are several Apps and Websites, however I would recommend caution and access ones that have been approved by the NHS as they will have been researched.  For example: 

Blueice – young people reduce urges to self-harm

Calm Harm – reduce urges to self-harm and manage emotions in a more positive way

Catch it – negative thoughts and look at problems differently

Chill Panda – breathing techniques relax, worry less

eQuoo – emotional fitness game – help with emotional fitness

MeeTwo – safe and secure for teenagers wanting to discuss any issues affecting their lives

MoodSpace- Stress, anxiety and low mood self-help

Is the premises near a main bus route?

Yes, there is a bus stop directly outside the Corner House on the Coast Road, which is a 5-minute walk to the property and the buses come from North Shields, Blyth, Whitley Bay and terminates at Newcastle City Centre.  The numbers are 306, 308, 309, 310 and 311.  The same bus numbers from Newcastle City Centre stop on the opposite side of the road, just after the traffic lights junction, apart from number 38 which turns at the traffic lights and is the first stop just moments around the corner.

Do you do online/telephone therapy?
I do provide 50 minute telephone therapy and online video therapy via Zoom. I used Zoom as it is a secure video conferencing platform when the security measures are in place. Zoom does not hold any information on clients and a new meeting invitation is generated each time you have a therapy session. You as the client you are directed to a virtual waiting room until I permit you. The meeting is then locked so no one else can join the session.
I’m not very good at talking about my feelings, so how will therapy benefit me?
Speaking to someone who won’t judge you, is impartial, and is not involved in the situation can help to make it easier to talk about your thoughts and feelings. Psychotherapy and counselling are also focused on behaviour and thoughts, so the focus does not have to be solely on your feelings.
My family/friends don’t understand my situation, how will a therapist be any different?
I am trained and have experience of listening to people with a variety of different issues. I do this in a way that gives you the opportunity to talk about whatever is bothering you and explore this without judgement. You can be reassured that what you say is confidential and you will not be asked to discuss or do anything that you don’t want to.