Frequently asked questions

All sorts of people use Relate’s wide range of services to understand what’s going on in their relationship and change things for the better. If you have a question not answered here, please ask your counsellor or a member of staff.

Can I come on my own?

Yes. Whether you are single, or if you have a partner who doesn’t want to come or you simply want to discuss things alone you are welcome to bring any aspect of your current, past or future relationships to Relate by yourself.

 

What do Relate Coventry and Warwickshire charge?

We charge £60-£65 per adult session, service dependant, , which covers the cost of providing a Relate trained counsellor. We do not make a profit. If you are unable to afford this cost then we do have a bursary scheme which we will be happy to discuss with you.

Our Coventry based Children and Young person’s service is charged at £46 per session.

Should you proceed to ongoing counselling, an online payment service is available for convenience. Please call for more information.

Do I have to be referred to Relate?

No. Many organisations and GPs do refer people to Relate but you can contact Relate directly if you would like to talk about anything to do with relationships.

Do Relate counsellors have special training?

Relate counsellors have all received special training in couple counselling and various counselling subjects. 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. We may talk to you about seeing a ‘counsellor-in-training’. Counsellors-in-training’ have gone through a rigorous selection and training process and will be receiving close professional support. All counsellors continue with ongoing training and consultation with other professionals to ensure they give you the highest standard of counselling.

How can counselling help me?

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/family, 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.

Is Relate counselling confidential?

Relate counselling is completely confidential. We will not give your name or any information about you to anyone outside Relate, unless someone’s personal safety is at risk.

Can I reschedule or cancel an appointment?

If you wish to reschedule or cancel an appointment you need to contact us at least 48 hours in advance of the appointment. If you have paid for your appointment and notice has been given, we can transfer the balance to your next appointment

What happens at a counselling session?

At your first session a counsellor will talk with you for up to one hour. Some people find this session is all they need 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.

What happens if I have a complaint?

Relate always welcomes feedback and is keen to improve its services. We have a complaints procedure which aims to make the process straightforward and fair. Should you wish to make a complaint, in the first instance, please raise it with the manager. Your complaint or concerns will be investigated and you will receive a reply within four weeks.

If you wish to take your complaint further after receiving your reply please contact the centre.