The first session is a space for us to get to know each other and see if we’re a good fit. I’ll ask some gentle questions about what’s brought you to therapy, your hopes for the work, and any relevant background. You’re welcome to share as much or as little as you feel comfortable. We’ll also go over the counselling agreement together, including confidentiality, fees, and boundaries.

Each session lasts 50 minutes and usually takes place once a week on the same day and time. Weekly sessions help build momentum and trust, but we can discuss what works best for you.

That depends on you and what you’d like to work through. Some people come for a short-term focus (6–12 sessions), while others prefer open-ended therapy. We’ll regularly review how the therapy is going and whether you feel it’s helpful. You’re never locked into a fixed number of sessions.

Yes — confidentiality is a core part of counselling. What you share stays between us, with a few exceptions for safety or legal reasons: If I believe you or someone else is at serious risk of harm If I am legally required to share information (e.g., safeguarding, terrorism, money laundering) I may discuss our work in supervision, which is standard ethical practice, but your identity is always protected.

I ask for at least 24 hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule. Cancellations with less notice may be charged at the full rate unless due to an emergency. If I ever need to cancel, I will offer you an alternative date as soon as possible.

You're welcome to contact me by email or text for practical matters like rescheduling a session. I aim to respond within 24–48 hours on weekdays. I don’t offer therapeutic support outside of sessions, so if you’re in crisis, please contact your GP, local services, or call 999 / 111.

That’s totally okay. Many people feel uncertain at the beginning. You're welcome to book a free 15-minute phone consultation so we can talk through your questions. There’s no pressure to commit — it’s important that you feel safe and comfortable before beginning.

Yes. I work with clients from a range of cultural and ethnic backgrounds, including those with mixed heritage or navigating multiple cultural identities. I aim to create a safe, respectful space where your experiences, values, and identity are fully recognised and understood. Sessions are available in English, Mandarin, and Cantonese for those who feel more comfortable expressing themselves in their first language.

You are free to end therapy at any time. Ideally, we’d plan a few ending sessions to reflect on your progress and say goodbye in a way that feels complete and supportive. Ending is an important part of the process.

Therapy is a one-to-one, confidential space, so I usually work with clients individually. If you’re feeling anxious about attending the first session, we can talk about that and find a way to support you.

Yes, alongside online sessions, I offer in-person counselling in the centre of Poole, Dorset. My practice is located in a comfortable, safe, and welcoming space—ideal for clients who prefer face-to-face interaction.

You can book an in-person session by contacting me via email, WhatsApp, or WeChat. During our initial consultation, we’ll arrange session dates, times, and discuss any questions you may have.

Absolutely. Therapy can offer a supportive environment to explore cultural identity, generational differences, and family expectations. Together we’ll work towards greater understanding, harmony, and personal clarity.

Providing counselling in Mandarin or Cantonese requires more than simply translating words. It involves deeper cultural understanding, emotional attunement across languages, and extra preparation to ensure sensitive and effective support. These sessions often include additional time spent on language precision, emotional nuance, and culturally relevant resources. The difference in fee reflects the added level of professional skill and care involved in delivering high-quality, personalised therapy in your preferred language. This allows me to offer a service that truly meets your needs while maintaining the quality and sustainability of my practice. Concessionary rates are available for clients who may need financial support—please feel free to check availability.

Being far from home, adapting to a new culture, academic pressure, or feeling isolated can be overwhelming. Counselling gives you a safe space to talk about your experiences, explore difficult feelings, and learn ways to cope and thrive. It’s not about having something “wrong”—it’s about having someone supportive in your corner.

Absolutely. Homesickness, self-doubt, or questioning your decisions are all valid and very common. Therapy can help you unpack these feelings, find perspective, and work out what’s best for you—without pressure or judgment.