Other Frequently Asked Questions

Is counselling only for ‘nutters’?

Not at all. Whilst some young people come to counselling with serious anxiety problems or depression, most of the young people that come to counselling are just having a rough patch with their family, friends or their confidence. See the page ‘Why do people have counselling’.

Do my parents or teachers get told?

No. Everything is confidential. The only time a counsellor will inform anyone else is if you are a danger to yourself or to someone else or if you are under 16 and you disclose information about being abused by an adult. Even so, the counsellor will discuss this with you before talking to someone else.

What if I don’t like the counsellor?

The relationship is to support YOU. If you are uncomfortable with your counsellor, you can request a different one. Counsellors are professional and will not take it personally. They realise that no-one can get on with everyone!

What happens if I bump into a counsellor in public?

You will plan for this with your counsellor. Usually the counsellor will ignore you and will only say ‘hello’ if you say something to them. They will NEVER discuss your health or your counselling issues outside the counselling room.

Will it be all about my mother and analysing me?

There are various styles of counselling. Some may help you explore things that made you unhappy in your childhood, but this is not always the case. Anyway, remember, you will be in control of the topics discussed. Before you start any counselling find out more about the counsellor’s style and approach and check that it suits you

Does it cost anything?

No. All community counselling is provided free. If you are earning, however, you may be asked to make a donation to help someone who cannot pay.

Will it be at a convenient time and place?

See the map of counselling services to find out where your local service is. If this is not a convenient location, discuss this with them. As far as possible, counselling sessions will be made at a time that is convenient for you.

What if I can’t make an appointment?

We realize that plans can change and that sometimes holidays or other appointments mean that you cannot attend a session. If this happens tell your counsellor or the agency at the first possible opportunity.

Will I have to lie on a couch?

Most counselling rooms will simply be small, private rooms with comfortable chairs. Occasionally, a counsellor will have a couch in their room, but you will never be forced to use it if you do not want to.

Is there a waiting list?

Agencies cannot always see people immediately because they only have a few counsellors. You may, therefore, spend some time on a waiting list. Agencies will try to see you as soon as possible and will keep in touch with you. If things get worse and your problem becomes more urgent, then tell your local agency as soon as possible.

How long will the counselling last?

Each weekly appointment is one hour. The number of appointments you need will depend on how long you need to explore your problems and find solutions or a way forward. On average, young people attend 8 sessions, but some young people attend weekly sessions for up to two years if necessary.

What can I do if I am unhappy about the counselling?

All agencies will have a complaints policy. As the counselling is part-funded by Hertfordshire County Council, you can, if you wish, complain to them to CHeCC or to the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists.

Do I have to attend?

Only attend community counselling if it suits YOU. Your GP or teacher or parent may suggest you attend, but this does not mean you must. We help young people who want solutions or progress not young people who come because they have to.

How old must I be?

CHeCC serves young people aged between 13 and 25. Our partner agencies may see people before or after those ages, so please check with your local agency on this website. If you start at the age of 24, agencies will not generally drop you once you become 25 because the most important thing is the relationship not your age.