What to Expect When You Begin Counselling

My approach is humanistic, which means we focus on you, your experiences, and your feelings. I believe every person has the capacity to grow, understand themselves, and find solutions that work for their life.

In our sessions, I listen deeply, reflect what I hear, and support you in uncovering insights and making changes that feel right for you. You guide the pace, and I create a safe, non-judgmental environment for exploration.

Counselling is a collaborative process. We work together to explore what’s brought you here, whether that’s a specific difficulty or a general sense that something isn’t quite right. There’s no pressure to have clear answers — just space to be honest, curious, and compassionate with yourself as understanding unfolds over time.

Two people having a conversation at a glass-top table with two glasses of water, a notebook, a pen, and eyeglasses; one person with white hair and black clothing, the other with dark hair and a white shirt, seated in a room with wooden flooring.

What happens in the first session?

Your first session is a chance to get to know each other and understand what brings you to counselling. We’ll talk about your goals, what you’d like to explore, and how counselling can support you. This will be the focus of most of the session.

At the start, I will briefly explain how confidentiality is kept between us, and the limits to that. We will both commit to the length of sessions, how they are booked and how to cancel if you can’t make it.

By the end of the session, you’ll have a clear idea of the next steps and whether you feel comfortable continuing.

Book a free 20 minute intro call

Interested in starting counselling but not sure?

It’s completely normal to feel a little nervous about starting counselling. The first session is a gentle way to begin — there’s no pressure to say anything before you’re ready.

Our time together is about creating a safe, private space where you can talk openly and feel heard without judgement. In this first meeting, I’ll invite you to share a little about what’s brought you to counselling and what you hope to get from it. You don’t need to have everything worked out — many people simply know that something doesn’t feel right and want some space to explore it.

I’ll also explain how counselling works, including confidentiality and what you can expect from me. We can talk about what you might find helpful, and you’re welcome to ask any questions about the process.

By the end of the session, you’ll have a clearer sense of how we might work together and whether this feels like the right fit for you. There’s no obligation to continue — it’s entirely your choice.

Professional Qualifications

  • BSc Psychology (Honours) with Counselling, The Open University, UK

  • CPCAP Therapeutic Counselling Level 4 Humanistic

  • Registered Member, British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP)

Data Protection

Compliant with GDPR, Registered with the ICO, UK

Safety Check

Enhanced DBS Certificate to 26/08/2026

Insurance

Balens (cover UK and worldwide apart from the US and Canada)

Limited Company 

David Houliston Counselling Limited. Reg in England & Wales 16731579