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Getting Started with Email Counselling

  • laurawilkes123
  • Apr 10
  • 2 min read

Updated: 4 days ago

Thank you for your interest in email counselling. Below is a simple step-by-step guide to help you understand how to get started and what to expect from the introductory session.


STEP 1: Complete the Web Form


Click here: www.laurawoodtherapy.co.uk to fill out a short form to request your introductory session. This form is located at the bottom of my home page and gives me the key information I need to get things started.


STEP 2: Set Up Your Secure Email Account


Once I’ve received your form, I’ll send you:

  • Instructions on how to create your own free, encrypted ProtonMail account, which we’ll use to exchange emails securely.

  • A few pieces of paperwork to complete.

  • A PDF guide explaining how email counselling works and what to expect.


STEP 3: Introductory Session Details

I’ll confirm the day and time for your introductory email session—this is the window in which you can write and send your first email to me. I will read your email after that time and send my reply two working days later.


STEP 4: Send Your Introductory Email

Before your session time, you’ll:

  • Find a space that is comfortable and private in order for you to write your email.

  • Write and send your introductory email (up to 300 words) using your secure email account


✉️ More About the Introductory Session

Our first exchange is a chance to try out this way of working together. It allows you to get a feel for what email counselling with me is like, and gives me a better understanding of your needs and how I might be able to help.


There’s no commitment at this stage—you can decide after this session whether or not you’d like to continue.


In your email, I invite you to include:

  • Any previous experience with counselling, if relevant (good, bad, online, in person)

  • Why you’ve chosen email counselling, and if you’ve tried it before

  • A little about the main issues you’d like support with

  • What you’re hoping to get from counselling

  • Any questions you have (lots of info is also available on my website)


STEP 5: My Therapeutic Reply

I’ll send my response email by the agreed day and time. This will be up to 300 words, reflecting on what you’ve shared, offering therapeutic insights, and suggesting what we might explore together if you choose to continue.


STEP 6: Your Decision

After reading my reply, you’ll send a short, practical email to let me know whether you’d like to begin weekly email counselling sessions.


STEP 7: Session Planning

If you’d like to go ahead, I’ll confirm the weekly day and time you’ll send your emails (and when I’ll reply). I'll also send you my bank details and a copy of our therapeutic contract for you to read and sign.


STEP 8: We Begin Email Sessions

You’ll send your email (up to 500 words) on the agreed day each week, and I’ll respond with a therapeutic email reply (also up to 500 words) two working days later. This becomes our ongoing rhythm for therapy.


If you have any questions before starting, feel free to get in touch. I know that reaching out can feel like a big step—thank you for considering this way of working together.


Warmly,

Laura

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