Single Session Counselling

Single-session counselling

Looking for help but not sure you want therapy? 

Haven’t got the time to see your GP for an NHS referral?

Are you trying to resolve a dilemma but going around in circles?

Openforwards can help.  Please call us on tel. 0121 523 1108 to arrange a session.

What is single-session counselling?

Single-session counselling is a way of giving you immediate help without having to commit to weekly therapy sessions. 

Rather than needing to talk about your past or describe your life in detail, we get straight to the issue.  We focus directly on the problem you want to resolve, identifying possible solutions and deciding on an action plan. 

By the end of the session, you will have a clear plan for your next steps. 

Who can benefit from single-session counselling?

Many people can benefit from single-session counselling.  If you want to tackle a problem and implement a solution quickly, get in touch.  We can usually offer you a single session within a few days.

What sort of issues can it help me with?

Single sessions can help with many issues or difficulties, including:

• Anxiety, Stress and Self-Esteem.
• Relationship issues.
• Lifestyle changes.
• Dilemmas and uncertainties.
• Life Adjustments such as losses of health and bereavement.
• Urgent decisions.
• Lack of direction.

Single sessions can also help if you want to get a taste of counselling before deciding if you want to consider ongoing therapy.  Similarly, you’ll benefit if you are already seeing a counsellor and you want a second opinion or if they can’t help you with a specific issue.

When is single-session counselling not appropriate?

Research shows that many people benefit from single-session counselling.  There may be some circumstances in which it would be wise to consider other options.  It may seem obvious, but you should probably book a consultation here if you want ongoing counselling.

Many people want help because they struggle with relationships and, in particular, trust.  When learning to develop trust, it takes time and working with a therapist over a longer period would likely be more helpful.

Single-session counselling is effective when you know what you want.  Being able to describe an issue and a hope or goal will make it worthwhile.  If you’re unable to specify that right now, then taking more time with a therapist in ongoing therapy would probably suit you better.

What happens in a session?

When you come to your session, we aim to focus on resolving your problem quickly.  We’ll explore what’s happening, identify possible solutions and rehearse it together.  We’ll complete a written action plan so you leave the session with a clear, workable direction.

We ask you to prepare before we meet to ensure we use our time efficiently.  We’ll send you a questionnaire about the problem you want to address.  You’ll think about the important details, what you’ve tried before and what you want to get out of the session.  By investing in some work before we meet, you start the process of changing something important immediately.

After your session, we’ll send you a summary of what we discussed and agreed upon.  You are also welcome to record the session to refer to it later. 

Can I have more than one session?

Yes.  Further sessions are available if you want them.  You can request additional sessions at the end of your appointment or later. 

We do not put pressure on you to seek further sessions.  Single-session counselling is designed to help you implement an action plan immediately and independently. Other sessions are available if you choose.

Which therapists offer single-session counselling?

Our founder and lead therapist, Jim Lucas, offers single-session counselling.  He has helped 1000s of people improve their mental health, relationships and lifestyles.  Jim trained as a CBT Psychotherapist in 2003 and trains and supervises other therapists independently and at the University of Birmingham.  He has published several online courses and self-help eBooks and strives to get effective psychological techniques into the water supply.

How do I book an appointment for Single Session Counselling?

You can call us on tel. 0121 523 1108 or email us using the form here. We require payment upon booking; you can meet in person or online.  Single sessions are £105.

Alternatively, you can book an information call to discuss it further before deciding to go ahead.  These calls last 10 minutes and give you the chance to ask questions about single-session counselling. Please call us on tel. 0121 523 1108 to arrange a time.