At Parental Minds, we understand that one of the most common barriers to accessing private therapy can be the cost, which can range from £40-£75 per hour.
We believe that high quality support for emotional wellbeing should be within reach for everyone.
That’s why we’re dedicated to providing an affordable counselling service to all.
Anyone registered with Parental Minds can ask to be referred to our counselling service, and each person pays what they can afford.
‘When I started my counselling, I was desperately trying to hold on for the sake of my children. Part of the pressure was being a single mum with a disabled child who wasn’t at school full-time and trying to keep the finances coming in, so paying full price for a counsellor was never an option. To have these sessions subsidised has meant I’ve been able to afford them and, quite frankly, along with the support of friends, has been a huge part in helping me find another way through… I can’t thank Parental Minds enough for offering this to me.’
– Client E
What is talking therapy?
Talking therapy gives you an opportunity to speak to someone about how you are feeling.
Therapists are independent from your family and friends, which means that you may feel able to speak to them more openly.
They help you to find your own way of making changes in your life, to identify your strengths and to help you find new ways of dealing with any difficulties.
‘My counsellor was so helpful at talking me through the issues I was having and helping me see where things were going right when I didn’t think so. He did it in a really kind way and always made me feel comfortable. He was so encouraging and supportive and I always felt at ease talking to him. He was a huge help.’
– Client M
How do I access counselling?
Please ask your current Parent/Caregiver Peer Support Worker who will send you a form to complete.
This is where you will briefly describe why you would like counselling and when you are available, and you will select a payment level that is affordable to you.
Where will we meet?
The sessions can be face to face in Honiton or Exeter, or can be virtual (online) or via telephone.
What happens next?
Once you have completed a counselling request form, our qualified counsellor Kate Haskell will be in touch with you. This is a friendly phone call to find out more about your needs and check that we can provide the right kind of support for you and match you to the right therapist.
Typically, we aim to match you with a counsellor within 2-3 weeks of this initial contact. Where this isn’t possible, we can offer regular listening calls with our trained listeners whilst you wait for counselling. And, of course, your Parent/Caregiver Peer Support Worker will continue to support you in your parental role throughout.
Once we have matched you with a therapist, they will contact you to arrange your first appointment. Your wellbeing is our priority, and we work diligently to get you the support you need when you need it.
When do the sessions take place?
Some counsellors can offer sessions during evenings and weekends, as well as daytimes. You will be asked about your availability during the initial chat with Kate, and we will try to match you with a therapist with similar availability. The more flexibility you can offer, the quicker we can get you the support you need.
Once you have been matched with a counsellor they will be in touch to arrange the time and location of your first meeting, and you will decide together the frequency of sessions.
How long will my counselling last?
We believe that therapy should be a journey tailored to your needs. Unlike many other services we do not impose a limit on the number of sessions you can access. We provide you with the support you require for as long as you need it, ensuring a comprehensive and supportive therapeutic experience.
‘I have felt a huge benefit from having weekly counselling. It’s really helped me to look at myself through our journey, my counsellor has been so supportive.’
– Client D
How do I feedback my counselling experience?
We welcome feedback about our counselling service, as this helps us to continually improve.
Once you finish your counselling sessions you will be sent a feedback form to complete. You can also request this at any point, if you would like to provide feedback earlier.
If you feel that your sessions are not working for you, we encourage you to discuss any issues with your therapist, as they will be able to talk to you about this and possibly explore different ways of working with you. You can also raise questions or concerns with your contact at Parental Minds at any time.
Who are our counsellors?
Around half of our therapists are student counsellors on placement, who have undertaken foundation training and whose colleges have passed them as ready to undertake client work. All our therapists are DBS-checked, work under their own insurance, are supervised by a qualified counsellor and offer their time voluntarily to Parental Minds CIC families.
Many of our therapists continue to volunteer with us once they are qualified, and many develop specialist areas of expertise. You can read more about our current therapists here.
Other questions?
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Parental Minds operates as a not-for-profit Social Enterprise, reinvesting any income from our counselling service to further support and finance our support services. This allows us to continue positively impacting the lives of individuals seeking assistance.
Counselling placements for Students
If you are a trainee counsellor and interested in a student placement at Parental Minds please complete this application form, or email us with any queries.