Coming to see me

How do I get started?

If you would like to consider some counselling or psychotherapy, the first step is simply to call me for an informal chat – I am very friendly! This allows you to tell me a bit about your situation and for me to consider if I can help or offer you other options. It is also an opportunity for you to raise any questions or doubts you may have about therapy or the practicalities. Either call me direct, or email me with your phone/mobile number with a convenient time to call you back (see details in sidebar).

If you then wish to explore counselling further we will then arrange an informal meeting to discuss your needs in more detail and gives you an opportunity to meet me before committing to anything.

What happens in the first session?

If this is your first experience of psychotherapy or counselling, you may feel a little anxious and not sure what to expect. Alternatively you may not have experienced satisfactory therapy in the past. I believe that for a successful outcome, you must be comfortable with me and my approach to therapy.
During the first session we will:

Discuss the difficulties you are experiencing and the reasons for seeking therapy.

Briefly explore any relevant background such as childhood experiences, previous traumas and losses and any physical or psychological illnesses.

Then decide whether therapy is likely to help and if so, agree some goals.

Therapy outdoors

I believe that the natural world is very important for our sense of well-being. I, therefore, also offer therapy and supervision outdoors in natural settings such as woodland and parkland. This can be discussed during our first meeting to establish your needs and what would be most appropriate and helpful.

What happens next?

We will aim to meet weekly for 50 minute sessions. However, if this is not possible we can discuss alternative arrangements. I will also review progress with you on a regular basis.

How much therapy will I need?

This depends on what the issues are.

For some clients, a short and focussed approach of 8-10 weeks is enough to help them deal with a specific problem.

For others, a longer period of time is necessary to help them fully explore their history and their current life difficulties. Many clients feel satisfied and able to move on after 10-18 months.

A few clients find it helpful to stay in therapy for longer, especially if they are dealing with a particularly traumatic event.

How much does it cost?

My fees are as follows:

Individuals = £50 per session

Couples = £60 per session

Supervision (for trainees and qualified therapists) = £50 per session
(I have some concessionary places available for those on low incomes)

Payment is due at the end of each session in cash or cheque - You may pay in advance for a block of sessions.

How can you find me?

The address is: , Dartmoor Centre for Counselling & Psychotherapy, 20, Courtney Park Road, Newton Abbot, DevonTQ12 2HB.

See map below for approximate location

Parking
If you are coming by car, free on road parking is available around Courtney Park for a maximum of 1 hour. Longer parking with meters is available further round Courtney Park.

Arriving at the Centre
When you arrive, enter through the main door into the porch then use the door bell to let me know that you have arrived. (Try to avoid arriving very early as I may be with another client and will be unable to let you in.)

Who needs to know that I have been for counselling or psychotherapy?

It is up to you who you wish to tell. You may wish to confide in someone close to you in order that they can offer additional support. Also, you may wish to discuss with your GP, especially if you are on or considering medication. The content of our sessions would be confidential as outlined in my professional Code of Ethics and Practice.

Counselling with Trudi Macagnino