Counselling FAQs
How can I make an appointment?
Clients can self refer by ringing 020 8763 2064 and giving their name and address. An information pack will then be sent detailing how the service works and what to expect from it. If, after reading the information, you decide you would like to proceed, a short questionnaire will be sent to you for completion. The questionnaire aids the counsellor in making a decision about the best way forward for you.
Do I need to be referred?
The counselling service only accepts people who self refer; therefore a referral from your GP or other health professional is not required. Most callers however have visited their GP and the counselling service has been suggested to them.
How much does it cost?
You will be asked to make a contribution towards administration costs. The current minimum contribution is £3.00 if you are not working and £10.00 if you are in paid employment.
How long does the counselling last and how long are the sessions?
The sessions will be 50 minutes long. The Mind in Croydon Counselling Service is limited to 20 sessions of counselling.
Is Relationship Counselling or Family Therapy available?
No, we provide one-to-one counselling and we also run some therapy groups. See links for specialist relationship counselling organisation and family therapy.
Is there childcare available?
There are no childcare facilities at Mind in Croydon. If childcare is an issue for you please discuss this at your assessment interview.
Do you offer counselling in the evenings or at weekends?
We offer counselling on Thursday evenings. We do not offer weekend appointments.
I do not live in Croydon – What do I do?
Unfortunately we cannot offer the service to people who do not live in the London Borough of Croydon. See links for National Mind and other counselling organisations on our links page.
Can I make an appointment for someone else?
Counselling is a big commitment, if a person is too distressed to make the initial call, there is a good chance that they would not be in a position to fully participate in a counselling session. A visit to a GP would probably be a good idea in the first instance. If you are concerned about someone who maybe experiencing difficulty please do contact us: 020 8763 2064.
Will what I say be kept Confidential?
Feel free to read the Counselling Service Confidentiality policy Link.
What kind of problems do you deal with?
We can help you deal with any problems that are causing emotional distress. Many counsellors have specialist skills in areas including:
- Anxiety
- Bereavement
- Family issues
- Group Therapy
- Relationships
- Sexual abuse
The GP has prescribed Anti-depressants and I’m not sure I want to take them what do I do?
Get as much information as possible about the prescription from the GP who prescribed it for you in the first instance. Your local pharmacist will also be able to give you information about the medication. It is a good idea to write a list of those nagging questions such as: Will I become addicted? Can I take these and still drive my car? Get your doctor to answer these questions. If you decide not to take the medication that has been prescribed, it is always adviseable to let the Dr know your decision.
Is there parking available at Mind in Croydon?
Car parking spaces at Mind in Croydon are for staff use only. There are some pay and display parking bays on Pampisford Road; in addition there are three NCP Car Parks within walking distance of the Mind in Croydon building.
What can I do in a crisis?
If you are in a crisis and need to be seen urgently we can arrange for you to be seen within 48 hours - Monday to Friday 9.30am – 5.00pm.
The South London and Maudsley Trust provide a 24 hour emergency information line available on free phone No: 0800 731 2864.
Is it possible to volunteer to work for the counselling service?
If you would like to volunteer for the counselling service and have reception and admin skills, we would like to hear from you. You can download an application form and job description information, or call the Counselling Service to it discuss your eligibility.
I am currently training to become a counsellor & I need a placement. Can I apply for one at Mind?
Yes, click here to download an application form & job description.