Shanice Batson Counselling

Counselling

What happens in the first session?

The first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other, talk about what has brought you to counselling and begin exploring what you would like support with. There is no pressure to share everything straight away; we can take things at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

How often would we meet?

Sessions are usually held weekly, providing regular space to explore what is happening and build on the work we do together. I understand that circumstances and finances can vary, so we can discuss what feels manageable for you.

How long does counselling last?

There is no fixed length of time that counselling has to last. Some people come with a specific concern they would like to explore, while others want longer-term space to understand themselves and their relationships. We can review how things are going together as we work.

Is counselling confidential?

What you share in counselling is treated confidentially, with some important exceptions relating to safety and safeguarding. I can explain these boundaries at the beginning of our work so you understand how confidentiality works.

Do you offer online counselling?

Yes. I offer online counselling as well as face-to-face sessions in Basingstoke. We can discuss which option best suits your circumstances when you enquire.

What if I’m not sure counselling is right for me?

You don’t need to have everything figured out before getting in touch. I offer a free 20-minute introductory call so we can talk about what you’re looking for, ask questions and consider whether working together feels like a good fit.

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Young People’s Counselling

What age do you work with?

I work with young people aged 11 and above, offering a space to explore what is happening in their lives, understand their feelings and make sense of their experiences without fear of judgement.

What can young people talk about in counselling?

There is no set list of things they have to talk about. Young people might want to explore friendships, family relationships, school pressures, anxiety, confidence, identity or feeling different. They can also come along without knowing exactly what they want to talk about.

What happens in a counselling session with a young person?

Sessions offer young people time and space to talk about what matters to them at their own pace. Where it feels helpful, I may also use creative approaches, such as games or drawing, to support them in exploring feelings and experiences that can be difficult to put into words.

Do parents or carers get updates about sessions?

Confidentiality is an important part of building trust in counselling. I will discuss confidentiality and its limits with the young person and their parent or carer, including the circumstances in which information may need to be shared to help keep someone safe. Any communication with parents will be guided by the young person’s age, understanding, consent and safeguarding needs.

What if my young person doesn’t want to attend counselling?

It can be difficult when you feel your young person might benefit from support but they are unsure about counselling. Having the opportunity to ask questions and understand what counselling involves can help. It is important that young people have space to express their own feelings about attending, rather than feeling pressured into the process.

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Parent Consultation

Who are parent consultations for?

Parent consultations are available to parents and carers of my existing counselling clients aged 11–14. They offer time to reflect on family relationships, communication and ways to support your young person alongside their counselling.

What can we discuss in a parent consultation?

You might want to explore communication at home, understand your own responses to difficult situations, or consider ways to strengthen connection with your young person. The focus is on helping you reflect on what might support your family, rather than discussing the details of your child’s counselling sessions.

How long is a parent consultation, and how much does it cost?

Parent consultations last 30 minutes and cost £35. They can take place by phone or Google Meet.

How often can we book a parent consultation?

Parent consultations can be arranged as needed, with around six weeks between sessions typically providing space to reflect on what you have explored and how things are going at home.

Can we discuss what happens in our child’s counselling sessions?

Your child’s counselling sessions remain confidential, and parent consultations are not a way to receive updates about what they have shared. We can instead focus on your experiences as a parent or carer, your concerns and ways to support your young person, while keeping their privacy and therapeutic relationship in mind.

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Still have a question?

If you haven’t found the answer you’re looking for, you’re welcome to get in touch using the form below. I’ll get back to you as soon as I can.

Prefer to talk first? You can also book a free 20-minute introductory call