FAQs: Psychotherapeutic Counselling in Newcastle upon Tyne and North Shields
Starting counselling can feel like a big step, and it’s completely normal to have questions about what to expect. These FAQs are here to help you feel more informed and at ease before we begin working together. If there’s anything you’re unsure about, you’re always welcome to ask.
What is psychotherapeutic counselling?
Psychotherapeutic counselling places the therapeutic relationship at the centre of the work we do. Research consistently shows that the quality of this relationship is one of the strongest predictors of positive outcomes in therapy.
This approach is exploratory and insight‑building. It can feel less structured than other types of counselling, and it isn’t the right fit for everyone. If you discover it isn’t for you, that’s completely okay.
As a psychotherapeutic counsellor, I will support you to explore the underlying causes of your distress, how past experiences shape your present, and the choices available to you as you move forward.
Who do you work with?
I work with adults of any age navigating life transitions, but I specialise in counselling young adults aged 18–30, both in private practice and through my role as a university counsellor for students. This is a life stage full of transition, leaving home, navigating identity, relationships, study, work, and dealing with pressure or uncertainty about the future.
I also work with adults of all ages who have been bereaved by suicide, as this is an area of specialist interest and experience within my practice.
Do you work with neurodivergent young adults?
Yes. Many of the young adults I work with are either diagnosed or undiagnosed neurodivergent. If you are neurodivergent, or suspect you are neurodivergent, I would encourage you to let me know so we can explore how your neurodivergence shows up and how we might take this into account in your therapy.
What issues can counselling help with?
Many of the people I work with come into counselling for anxiety, overthinking, imposter syndrome, perfectionism, academic stress and burnout, trauma, identity and self-esteem issues, relationship patterns, neurodiversity-related challenges, life transitions, and grief, including suicide bereavement.
This list is not exhaustive. If there is something not listed here that you would like support with, please get in touch and I will see if I can help. If something is not within my competence or experience, I will let you know, and if possible, signpost you to another suitable counsellor.
What happens in my first appointment?
Your first appointment is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and begin shaping the focus of your therapy. I’ll gather some essential information, including emergency contacts and GP details, so please have these ready.
Before the session, you’ll receive a counselling contract outlining fees, cancellation arrangements, confidentiality, and the complaints procedure. We’ll go through this together, and you’re welcome to ask any questions.
We’ll also begin exploring your expectations and goals for counselling. This often continues beyond the first session as I learn more about you and what you’re hoping for. There’s no rush and no time limit.
How long will my therapy last?
There’s no set timeframe. I work with some people for a handful of sessions and others for several years. The length of therapy depends on what you want to explore.
Some people come for short‑term support around a specific issue. Others stay longer to work through deeper patterns that have developed over time.
It’s also normal for people to begin therapy imagining longer‑term work but later realise that psychotherapeutic counselling isn’t the right fit, or that they need something different. If that happens, that’s absolutely fine. I do encourage giving therapy a little time at the start though, as it’s common to feel uncomfortable while adjusting to being seen and heard in a new way.
What happens in my sessions?
Many people arrive with a lot on their mind but aren’t sure where to begin. Having someone fully focused on you can feel unfamiliar, and you’ll be given time and space to find your words.
As you talk, I’ll be curious. I may ask you to clarify something, highlight patterns I’m noticing, or invite you to pay attention to your feelings.
If it’s helpful to your therapy, I may share small reflections from my own experience, but you will always know far less about me than I know about you.
I’ll check in regularly to make sure we’re talking about what matters to you and that the work feels aligned with your goals. Tangents are a normal part of therapy and often where important insights emerge. If we go off track or I misunderstand you, please tell me and we’ll find our way back together.
How often will my sessions be?
Weekly counselling gives us consistency and continuity, particularly whilst we are getting to know each other and developing an understanding of what you need from therapy. I would usually recommend weekly sessions for the first 8 weeks.
I’m mindful of the cost‑of‑living crisis, and for some people fortnightly sessions are the only sustainable option. After eight weeks, if fortnightly work feels clinically safe and appropriate, we can discuss this.
Monthly sessions are generally only offered as part of a planned ending to longer‑term therapy.
Will you give me advice?
I will very rarely give advice. You may already have received plenty of advice from loved ones or online sources. If advice had been enough, you probably wouldn’t be seeking counselling.
Constantly seeking advice can become confusing and pull you away from your own inner sense of self. It may help to consider what you’re hoping for from me that feels different from what others have offered.
Will counselling give me coping strategies?
Sometimes. But if you’re mainly looking for quick solutions or short‑term relief, the therapy I offer may not be the best fit for you. Psychotherapeutic counselling is reflective, exploratory, and often longer‑term, supporting you to make sustainable changes over time.
Can I get in touch with you between sessions?
You’ll have my mobile number and email address for arranging appointments or sharing documents. Counselling itself only takes place within sessions.
What if I am in crisis?
Counselling is not a crisis service. If you need urgent support around your mental health between sessions, please contact your GP, NHS 111, Samaritans, or Shout.
Can therapy make me feel worse?
Yes, sometimes. Therapy can bring buried or long‑avoided feelings to the surface. This can feel uncomfortable, but you won’t be facing these feelings alone. I’ll be alongside you as you navigate them. Learning to stay with your emotions is often some of the most meaningful work we do. You may feel tempted to cancel sessions during these times. If that happens, it's something we can talk about rather than something you need to navigate alone.
Where is your counselling practice in Newcastle?
In-person counselling takes place at The Old Fire Station, 234–236 Gosforth High Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE3 1HH. Once you’ve booked your first appointment, I’ll send travel information. There are benches in the entrance; please wait there and I’ll come to collect you. I also have some availability in premises near North Shields metro station.
What is your cancellation policy?
If an appointment is cancelled with more than 24 hours’ notice, the appointment can be rescheduled without charge. If the appointment is cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice or not attended without contact, you will be charged the full fee. In the case of genuine emergencies or sudden illness, some flexibility may be offered at my discretion.
How do I book a counselling appointment?
You can complete a contact form here, email me at jenkerrcounselling@outlook.com, or drop me a text message at 07955 365773.
How do I pay for appointments and what happens if I don't pay?
Sessions are paid via BACS transfer before each appointment. My bank details are included in your counselling contract.
If you forget to pay, I’ll remind you in the session or by text. If payments are repeatedly missed, I may need to end our work together.
Do you offer a discount for young adults?
I offer a reduced rate for young adults aged 18-25. Up-to-date fee information is available here.