Fees & FAQs - Counselling Costs, Insurance & Answers | Aura

Question 1

What happens in the free first conversation?

Accepted Answer

It's a relaxed 15-minute call with one of our counsellors. You describe what's bringing you here in your own words, we explain how we'd work with you, and together we decide whether it feels like a good fit. There's no commitment, no forms to fill in and no charge — and if we're not the right practice for you, we'll point you somewhere that is.

Question 2

How quickly can I start?

Accepted Answer

Usually within a week. We hold time each week specifically for new clients, so you won't be added to a waiting list. After your first conversation we'll offer you a regular slot — daytime, evening or Saturday — that you can keep for as long as you need it.

Question 3

How many sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

There's no fixed answer, and anyone who gives you one is guessing. Some people find six sessions is enough to work through a specific issue; others value longer-term support through a bigger change. We review progress together every six sessions, so you always know where you stand and are never locked in.

Question 4

Will counselling actually work for me?

Accepted Answer

Yes — and we say this without hesitation: the research consistently shows that the quality of the relationship between client and counsellor matters more than the particular technique used. It's why we offer the free conversation first, and why we take matching so seriously. If it doesn't feel right after a session or two, tell us. We'll rematch you with another counsellor, no awkwardness and no hard feelings.

Question 5

Is what I say really confidential?

Accepted Answer

Almost entirely, yes. Everything you say stays between you and your counsellor, including with employers in workplace referrals — they receive anonymised reporting only, never clinical detail. The rare exceptions are where there's a serious risk to your safety or someone else's, or where the law requires disclosure. Your counsellor explains these clearly in your first session, so there are never any surprises.

Question 6

Is online counselling as good as meeting in person?

Accepted Answer

Both are genuinely effective — the evidence shows no meaningful difference in outcomes. The right choice is the one you'll actually keep. Some people open up more easily from their own sofa; others value the ritual of travelling to a dedicated room. Many of our clients mix the two as life allows. Your counsellor will work with whichever suits you.

Question 7

Do you prescribe medication?

Accepted Answer

No — counsellors don't prescribe. If medication might help, your counsellor will discuss it with you and, with your consent, can write to your GP so your care joins up. Plenty of our clients work with their GP and us in parallel.

Question 8

What's the difference between counselling and psychotherapy?

Accepted Answer

Counselling generally focuses on specific issues and the present; psychotherapy goes deeper, often over a longer period, into long-standing patterns. In practice, the line between them is blurry, and our counsellors are trained to work at whatever depth suits you. The free conversation is the best place to work out what you need.

Question 9

Will I be given homework?

Accepted Answer

No. Counselling is talking-based work. If your counsellor suggests something to reflect on between sessions, it's an offer, never an assignment — the pace is set by you.

Question 10

What's your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

We ask for 48 hours' notice to change or cancel a session, and the full fee applies within that window. We know life happens — one late cancellation a year is on us, no questions asked.

Clear fees. No surprises.

Individual counselling — in person

Individual counselling — online

First conversation

Workplace & EAP referrals

Paying for your sessions

First-time questions, answered honestly

Still have questions?

Clear fees. No surprises.

Individual counselling — in person

Individual counselling — online

First conversation

Workplace & EAP referrals

Paying for your sessions

First-time questions, answered honestly

01What happens in the free first conversation?

02How quickly can I start?

03How many sessions will I need?

04Will counselling actually work for me?

05Is what I say really confidential?

06Is online counselling as good as meeting in person?

07Do you prescribe medication?

08What's the difference between counselling and psychotherapy?

09Will I be given homework?

10What's your cancellation policy?

Still have questions?