FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: GENERAL

Each Relate Centre tries to keep the cost of counselling as low as possible, but we do need to charge a fee for services in order to cover the cost of what we spend. Relate is a not for profit charity and the money that we charge goes straight back into providing the best service possible. 

We ask for a contribution towards the cost of our service (currently up to £70 for adult relationship counselling and £80 for PST but people pay what they can responsibly afford, there is no means testing and people contribute what they can)

Counselling helps you take time out from your situation and see it from a fresh perspective. Working with a counsellor gives you, or you and your partner, a chance to think about what you can do to change your situation for the better. It also gives you a chance to explore complex or difficult issues in a safe and confidential environment.

Relate counsellors have all received special training in relationship counselling. It takes two to three years to become a fully qualified Relate counsellor. They undergo further training to specialise in areas such as Family Counselling and Sex Therapy.

When you first come to Relate, you’ll be given an initial consultation. In this, a counsellor will talk to you for around one hour about what’s on your mind and what it is you want from counselling. Some people find this session is all they need to clear their head and help them decide what to do and that no further counselling is necessary. If you and your counsellor agree it would be helpful for you to come back, you’ll talk about how it might be best to proceed.

No. You don’t need a referral to make an appointment for any of our services. Just contact us and we’ll help you find the right service for your needs.

We work with every client differently, so how long counselling takes will depend on your specific needs. You’ll be able to find out more about how we can help you by coming for an initial consultation.

A counselling session lasts for around one hour.

We can’t do this for you, but when you come to the first session, the counsellor will help you to approach and encourage your partner to come.

Yes. Counselling is a very effective way of negotiating a separation or a divorce. It can help you to process any emotions that you might be struggling to deal with, or bring the relationship to a conclusion with as little pain or misunderstanding as possible.

Yes, if the counsellor is available. Sometimes, you may have to wait until that counsellor has a vacant appointment to offer you.

Yes. We don’t discriminate between different types of relationship. We welcome all individuals and couples irrespective of how they identify in terms of sexuality or gender.

No. Counselling doesn’t mean you’re admitting failure. It simply means you’re willing to work on your relationship and put in the effort to deal with any issues that might be in the way. In many cases, counselling means beginning not to fail.

First appointments are usually given within a week of contacting Relate.