Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions.
If you can't find what you are looking for please contact us.
What is the cost of Relate services?
We are a charity and don't make a profit from the services we provide. We currently charge between £48 and £90 for each counselling session. If you live within Herefordshire Worcestershire or Gloucestershire, there is a sliding scale of lower charges for those on lesser incomes.
To find out if you're eligible for a bursary please contact us.
What is the difference between ongoing therapy and one session therapy?
One Session Therapy is a type of counselling for adults aged 18 and above, focusing on a very specific area of a relationship. In a single hour-long session, individuals or couples work closely with a counsellor to address one clearly defined aspect of their relationship. It is not suitable for relationships impacted by abuse, control, or if someone is attending the session against their will.
Where can I see a counsellor in Herefordshire, Worcestershire & Gloucestershire?
Our main Centre is in Worcester, just off the city centre in Castle Street. We also provide counselling at outposts across the three counties. If you live anywhere in Herefordshire Worcestershire or Gloucestershire, we are your local Relate service. See our locations page for more information.
How do I make an appointment?
You can call us on 01905 28051 or get in contact via our online form.
How do I pay for my appointment?
You'll be asked to pay when you book your appointment. You can pay by a debit or credit card in person or over the phone, or via the online payment link that is sent to you.
You will be asked to confirm and pay at least three working days before your appointment. If you do not confirm and pay for your appointment in time it may be offered to another client. We respectfully ask that you adhere to this so that our limited admin time can be spent helping new clients to book sessions and not in chasing payments.
How do I cancel an appointment?
Counselling requires regular attendance, and we ask that you only cancel your appointment in an emergency. Please give us as much notice as possible if you can't attend your appointment.
Please be aware if you cancel with less than 48 hours' notice you'll lose your payment.
You can cancel your appointment by phone on 01905 28051 or by email.
Do I have to be referred for counselling or therapy by my GP?
No. You don't need a referral to make an appointment for any of our services. Just contact us and we'll help find the right service for you.
Can I come to counselling on my own?
Yes. Our counselling sessions are for individuals, couples or families. You may want to come to some sessions alone, with a partner or with your family members.
Can I bring my children with me to my appointment?
You are not able to bring your children with you to your counselling session unless you are having Family Counselling.
Our Centre does not have childcare facilities so you will need to make arrangements for your children before attending your session. We ask nursing mothers to make us aware if they are intending to bring along an infant.
Do I need to do anything before my appointment?
You don't need to do anything before your appointment. Just come along and our reception team will talk you through the process.
On your first appointment we'll need you to complete some forms so please arrive ten minutes early to do this.
If you have booked a Telephone or Webcam appointment, we suggest you think about where you can take the call so that you are in a safe place and won't be overheard.
Is what I say confidential?
Yes. Our services are completely confidential. We will not give your name or any other information about you to anyone outside Relate unless someone's personal safety is at risk.