• services
• about relate
• our centres

FAQ's

Q. What happens at a counselling session?

A. At your first session a counsellor will talk with you for up to one hour. Some people find this session is all they need to clear their thinking and help them decide what to do and no further counselling is necessary. You and your counsellor will talk through how Relate might be able to help and, if appropriate, your counsellor will recommend a Relate counselling service, Relate sex therapy or another service. If your counsellor doesn’t think we are best placed to help, they may suggest another organisation.

Q. How can counselling help me?

A. Counselling helps you take time out from your situation and see it from a fresh perspective. Working with a counsellor gives you, or you and your partner, a chance to think about what you can do to change your situation for the better. It can also give you a chance to explore complex or difficult issues in a safe and confidential environment.

Q. How do I make an appointment to talk to a Relate counsellor?

A. For a telephone counselling appointment call us on
020 8660 6492 for services in Purley, Sutton and Caterham
020 8946 1788 for service in Wimbledon
020 8680 1944 for service in Croydon
You can also email us on info@relatecandw.org.uk

Q. Is Relate the right place to come for my problem?

A. Relate is all about relationships and helping you make changes for the better. If you want to talk about your relationships past, present or future, how your family is affected by your relationship, how you can improve your relationship, how you can manage a separation constructively, how you can get over a break up, Relate is here to help.

Q. Do I have to pay for Relate services?

A. You will normally be expected to pay a fee. We enjoy charitable status and don’t aim to make a profit from the services we provide. Our competitive fee is set to cover the cost of sessions. We do not like to turn people away because of financial difficulties so in some circumstances subsidised counselling sessions are available.
Q. Do Relate counsellors have special training?

A. Relate counsellors have all received specialist training in couple counselling. It takes two to three years to become a fully qualified Relate counsellor. They undergo further training to specialise in areas such as family counselling and sex therapy.
On occasions we may talk to you about seeing a ‘counsellor-in-training’. These counsellors have gone through a rigorous selection and training process and receive close and ongoing professional support.

All counsellors continue with ongoing training and consultation with other professionals so they remain up to date with all aspects of relationship issues providing some of the highest standard of counselling in the country.

Q. Does Relate have long waiting lists?

A. Actually, Relate will see a couple within one week of registration for the initial consultation. After that, there are no waiting lists for day time appointments and evening appointments can be arranged within 3 weeks. Some Relate offices are able to accommodate evening appointments at short notice

Q. Do I have to be in a couple relationship to come to Relate?

A. Most couples come together to Relate, however, many individuals come on their own having just ended a relationship or want to get their own minds clear before involving their partner.

Q. What if I'm not sure if Relate can help with my problems?

A. In addition to couples counselling, Relate counsellors are trained in family therapy, psychosexual issues, domestic violence, sexual abuse and certain mental health issues. During the initial consultation a counsellor will explore your particular issue with you and together a decision is reached regarding Relate being involved in a way forward.