Frequently Asked Questions 

Counselling with Dominic

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Practical

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    1How do I book a first session, and is there a free consultation?

A first session can be booked by getting in touch, and we can arrange a free introduction call to see if we're a good fit. If you'd prefer, you can also book a first session directly as a payable session, without an introduction call.

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  2. What happens in the first session?

In a first session, we cover any contracting queries and agree how we'll work together. I usually offer a drink — tea, coffee, fruit teas, decaf options, or water — which gives you a chance to get to know me and feel comfortable speaking. We can go straight into what's brought you to therapy, or chat gently and build up your confidence in me first. I'll give you the space you need, while also helping with any nerves.

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  3. How much does it cost, and how do I pay?

Sessions cost £50. Once agreed, I'll send details for a bank transfer, requested 24 hours in advance to confirm bookings. I can also accept cash or contactless payment in person — please just let me know in advance if you'd prefer this. I'm able to accept health insurance providers, though this is at a higher rate; please ask for a list of approved providers.

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  4. What's your cancellation policy?

Cancellation policy is 24 hours' notice; sessions are payable if cancelled within this window. If there are difficulties, I'll always try to rearrange where I can.

  5. Do you offer online, phone, or only in-person sessions?

I offer in-person, online, and telephone appointments, and I'm happy to work flexibly — mixing and matching session types as needed. I also offer email therapy; please see the Email Counselling section for more details.

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  6.  Where are you based — is parking available?

I'm based at Merrydale House, in BD4 by the Euroway Trading Estate. This is just off the M606, with good links to Bradford, Cleckheaton, Halifax, Leeds, and Huddersfield. Parking is available in a first-come, first-served car park, as well as roadside spaces.

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About the Process

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   7.  How many sessions will I need?

It can be hard to say in advance how many sessions you might need. We can review this at any time, and I'll suggest when I feel a review may be helpful. I've worked with people both for a limited number of sessions and on an open-ended basis, depending on what gets the results they need.

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   8. What's person-centred counselling, and how is it different from CBT?

Person-centred therapy is, by definition, about you and what you feel you need to discuss. It can incorporate the past, the present, and looking forward, and it's a therapy where you do most of the talking. This is the approach I offer.

CBT focuses on changing thought patterns and behaviours, with more emphasis on what you want to change moving forward. I don't offer this type of therapy.

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  9. Is everything confidential? Are there any exceptions?

Confidentiality is important to me, and I believe in transparency — for example, I'll discuss at the beginning how I would need to act if I had concerns about your safety, including contacting relevant people or services. What we speak about in the room needs to be kept safe, so you feel able to open up without worrying about where the information might go. I wouldn't share anything without your consent, unless there's a risk to your safety or a court order requires it.

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  10.  What if I don't know what to talk about?

That's absolutely fine. Sometimes the things we end up talking about may not feel immediately relevant, but they often have a way of linking back. I take an interest in clients' lives and interests, and I remember what we discuss so I can ask questions that help the process along. Sometimes silence can be a helpful part of the process too — giving you space to quietly process and reflect on our work together.

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Specialisms

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   11. Do you work with ADHD, carers, or men specifically?

 

I work with any issues you may bring, and I have particular interests and specialist training in:

• Late/adult ADHD diagnosis

• Carers' issues

• Men's therapy — including working through relationship issues, managing stress and emotions, and navigating life changes

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  12. How does email counselling work, and is it right for me?

 

In a nutshell, email counselling involves an agreed time each week to send an email (usually around 500 words), with an agreed response time from me (usually within 48 hours). Please see the Email Counselling section for more details.

Do you work with couples or only individuals? I only work with individual adults, aged 16 and over. I'm not trained to work with couples.

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Practical/Logistical

   13.  Are you insured and accredited ?

Yes — I'm insured, and accredited with the NCPS on the Accredited Professional Register. I'm also registered with the BACP.

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   14. What if we don't feel like a good fit?

If we don't feel like a good fit — whether at the introduction stage or after any number of sessions, whether I pick up on it or you do — my priority is always to help you find the support you're looking for. There's no commitment beyond the next booked session, and we can explore finding a therapy type or therapist that feels like a better match. I also have trusted therapists I can recommend if needed.

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