Question 1

How many sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

This depends on you, what you would like to explore, and the kind of support you are looking for.
Some people find that short-term therapy, usually between 6 and 12 sessions, is enough to work through a particular issue or period of difficulty. Other people prefer to work with a therapist for longer, especially when exploring deeper patterns of thinking, feeling or relating that may have developed over many years.
We can discuss what may feel helpful during your introductory consultation and review this as we work together. You are always free to finish whenever you feel ready, or to continue for longer if the work still feels useful.

Question 2

What does a typical session look like?

Accepted Answer

As an Integrative Psychotherapeutic Counsellor, I draw on a range of theories and ways of working to support each person as an individual. My approach is warm, empathic and collaborative, with a particular interest in how early experiences, relationships and life events can shape the way we understand ourselves and others.

A typical session gives you space to talk openly about what is happening in your life, at a pace that feels manageable. You might come with something specific you want to explore, or you may simply know that you feel stuck, overwhelmed, low, anxious or unsure where to begin.
Talking is often central to counselling, but it is not the only way of working. Where helpful, and if it feels right for you, we may also use creative approaches such as imagery, art or music to support reflection and expression, particularly when words feel difficult to find.

Question 3

How often will we meet?

Accepted Answer

Counselling is usually most helpful when sessions take place weekly, as this allows the work to develop steadily and consistently.

However, everyone’s circumstances are different. You may feel that fortnightly sessions are more manageable, or that occasional check-ins are enough. At times, you may feel that more frequent sessions would be helpful. We can discuss what feels right for you and review this as we go.

Question 4

Where do sessions take place?

Accepted Answer

I currently offer face-to-face counselling from two locations:

Tynemouth
1 Tynemouth Road
Tynemouth
Tyne and Wear
NE30 4AY

Gosforth
19 Lansdowne Terrace
Gosforth
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE3 1HP

These locations may be suitable if you are based in Newcastle, North Tyneside, Tynemouth, Gosforth or the surrounding areas.

I also offer online counselling by telephone or Zoom, so you can access therapy from wherever you are in the UK. Many people find online counselling convenient, flexible and effective, especially if travelling to sessions is difficult or if they feel more comfortable speaking from their own space.

Question 5

Walk and Talk therapy

Accepted Answer

If you are based in Newcastle or North Tyneside and feel you may benefit from being outside in nature, I also offer walk and talk therapy in Jesmond Dene and Northumberland Park.

Walk and talk therapy can be helpful for people who prefer not to sit face to face in a therapy room, or who find that movement and being outdoors supports reflection. We can discuss whether this way of working feels suitable during your introductory consultation.

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Counselling with Leon Francis