One-at-a-Time focused counselling

This services provides focused counselling, one appointment at a time.

What is One-at-a-Time focused counselling?

We provide what’s called One-at-a-Time (OAAT) focused counselling, meaning exactly that - we offer you one appointment at a time, at the time you need it. This is a dynamic, focused form of counselling which has been shown to be effective in a short space of time. One-at-a-Time means that you don’t have to go through a lengthy referral or waiting list period but can get help as and when you need it. 

About 70% of students find a single appointment is all they need to help them move in the right direction. Please be assured that if in the session we decide together that OAAT is not sufficient for you we will agree the necessary steps to ensure your support. 

All you need to know in six easy steps 66 KB

What happens before my counselling appointment? 

First you register by filling in our online registration form. We will then contact you with a link so that you can book your One-at-a-Time appointment online at a time that suits you.

What happens during my counselling appointment?

Right from your first appointment with us you’ll be working with your counsellor to focus on what can help you move forward. The session will provide space to understand your issue more fully, gain new perspectives and generate solutions to try out straight away. 

What happens after my counselling appointment? 

We encourage you to take some time to reflect upon and digest what emerges from your counselling session. We suggest three weeks. This time gives you the opportunity to try out some of the ideas, techniques or action plans discussed in the One-at-a-Time session, and see how they are working, or to contact any other sources of support.

How many appointments are available? 

We offer you one appointment at a time, which may be all you need. If you would like a further appointment after three weeks, simply book this online again using the link we originally sent you or email our Centre for Wellbeing Admin on centreforwellbeing@surrey.ac.uk, and we can send you the link to book in for a further session. You can choose the same, or a different counsellor.

Frequently asked questions

When can I get an appointment?

We will offer you an appointment as quickly as possible, depending on your availability. We offer appointments Monday to Friday from 8am - 4pm to throughout the year.

How long does an appointment last?

Each appointment lasts up to 50 minutes and has clear start and end points. If you arrive late, we will not be able to give you more than your allocated time slot.

Can I choose who I see?

Our online booking system allows you to choose which counsellor you see. It is normal that sometimes you may not click or gel with a particular counsellor. If you want to meet a different counsellor, that’s ok.   

Can I specify to see a male or female counsellor?

We want you to feel comfortable with us, so should you wish to have a male or female counsellor this can be arranged.

How confidential is this service?

The work with your counsellor is confidential we don’t discuss this with your tutors, families or anyone else without your permission. As part of our duty of care, if we believe you pose a significant risk of harm to yourself or others, we may need to act to minimise the risk. We would always try to involve you in any decisions and act in accordance with your wishes.

Please find more information in our privacy notice.

Cancellation and ‘no show’ policy

Please give us at least 48 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment so we can offer this to someone else and reduce our waiting times. If you don’t cancel your appointment and do not attend, you will need to contact us to re-schedule.

Persistent cancellations may suggest that counselling is not right for you just now. However, you are always welcome to return for an appointment in the future.

Who are the counsellors?

We are a team of professionally trained and qualified counsellors who abide by the Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions from our professional body, the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). We all have specialist training in One-at-a-Time Focused Counselling.

Find out more information about our the Ethical Framework to which we subscribe. 

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