Frequently asked questions

What is Safe Space with Rachel?

Safe Space with Rachel is a private counselling service provided by Rachel Chambers, MBACP. I am passionate about helping children and young people overcome mental health challenges and get back to being the best version of themselves. Too many children are held back by their difficulties and cannot freely enjoy their younger years.

How does a counselling session work?

Sessions last 45 minutes and take place consistently on a weekly basis. Your child will attend the therapy room which offers art materials, small world play, games, sand and other resources. The session is child-centred, meaning they will play without agenda and I will support them to learn about themselves and their emotions through the style of play they choose. Younger children communicate through the language of play and older children may want to talk directly. We talk, learn, and grow through the materials they choose.

How much does it cost?

We will have an initial phone conversation, free of charge. We will then schedule an assessment meeting online to talk in more detail. It is important that we consider whether this is the right next step for your child.
Each regular session is £70.

Do you offer group therapy?

I am planning to run courses on anxiety, anger, bereavement, exam pressure and other themes for children to share and grow in a group setting. Please register interest and future details will be sent out.

How many sessions will my child need?

Each child is individual and will process at their own pace. My suggestion is to work in blocks, with a review at the end of each block. We can monitor and ensure that planned sessions are necessary and helpful. When the child is ready, we prepare for the end of the work and finish by reflecting and ending by cementing their learning, reliable resources and where to seek help in future if needed.

How do I choose a therapist?

Each therapist has a unique personality and approach, and you may be looking for specific traits, such as a particular age or approach. I learn as much as I can about your child and meet with them prior to beginning counselling. You, and your child, can then decide to commit to regular counselling if it feels helpful. Finding the right person to counsel your child is an important step and I understand this. There is no obligation to organise sessions after the initial assessment.

Do you offer online/video/phone therapy?

I currently offer face-to-face therapy only in Guildford and surrounding areas. I believe there is so much to learn through in-person communication and I work through shared activities such as drawing, painting, role play and sand work which are easier to share when meeting together.

What if my child doesn't like counselling?

One of the most important principles of counselling is consent. It is fundamental that your child understands what counselling is and can withdraw whenever they decide. Children should be autonomous and their opinion is valued very highly in the therapeutic relationship.

If your child finds any session negative or unhelpful, it is my job to adapt, understand the discomfort and work through this with your child. Sometimes the greatest learning can come from overcoming a challenge together. Your child's needs will always guide the work and I do not expect a child to engage if they feel uncomfortable.

Can you meet at my child's school?

Yes - my kit is transportable and I am happy to attend a school setting to meet with your son or daughter. However, some settings may not have space to facilitate or feel strongly about the young person missing a lesson per week. Therefore this would require a unique arrangement to be made.

What is the parent's role in therapy?

You are invaluable in helping me to understand your child's strengths, difficulties and character to assess whether my therapy is helpful for them. We will have an initial conversation on the phone, before arranging a meeting in more detail. You are always welcome to speak with me at the beginning, end or in between sessions. I can offer regular summaries of themes or key learnings, though confidentiality for the child is always crucial. The child needs to know that their play is not going to be relayed back, so they can express themselves without worrying what others will think. I also offer parent consultations to discuss the process in more detail and plan next steps with your input. The balance is delicate to both uphold confidentiality and include you as parents but I am here to answer your questions appropriately.