To Young People
You do not have to wait until things get really bad before asking for help.
You don't have to wait until things feel overwhelming to ask for help. Talking to someone early can make a big difference when you're feeling low.
Will what I say be kept private?
In most situations, yes.
Counselling works best when you feel able to speak openly, so confidentiality is an important part of what we do.
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There are some situations where we may need to share information if we believe that you or someone else is at risk of serious harm. If this happens, we will usually try to talk to you first and explain what needs to happen and why.
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We explain confidentiality at the beginning of counselling so you understand how your information is managed and when something may need to be shared to help keep people safe.
Do I have to tell my parents or carers?
You can contact COGS yourself. We may sometimes talk with you about involving a parent or carer, particularly if we are worried about your safety. We will explain this to you and involve you in what happens next.
Counselling FAQs
Do I have to wait until things get really bad?
Not at all. You can talk to us about anything that is on your mind, no matter how small it feels. We are here to support you at any stage.
Will what I say be kept private?
In most situations, yes. What you share in counselling is confidential. If we become seriously worried about your safety or someone else's, we may need to share information to help keep people safe. We will usually talk to you about this first.
Do I have to tell my parents or carers?
No. You can contact COGS yourself. We may sometimes talk with you about involving a parent or carer, particularly if we are worried about your safety. We will explain this to you and involve you in what happens next.
What happens in a counselling session?
It is a safe, relaxed space to talk. Your counsellor will listen without judging you, helping you explore your feelings and find your own way forward.
How long does counselling last?
Usually, we offer a block of sessions, each lasting 50 minutes. We can chat about how many sessions you might need during your first meeting.
How do I get started?
Just send us an email or give us a call. You do not need a doctor's referral. We will then arrange a time for a simple introductory chat.