The first session
Taking the first step into counselling can feel overwhelming, which is why I aim to make our first session a gentle space to explore what’s bringing you to therapy. We’ll talk about what you’re hoping for, any challenges you’re facing, and whether we feel like a good fit. I’ll ask a few questions to get to know your background, experiences, and preferences so I can tailor our work together in a way that feels right for you. You’re also very welcome to ask me anything about how I work or what therapy might look like moving forward.
The most important thing is that you feel safe, heard, and supported. If we both feel it’s a good fit, we’ll discuss next steps and how we might work together. And if, for any reason, it doesn’t feel quite right, that’s completely okay. Finding the right therapist is a personal journey, and there’s no pressure to continue if it doesn’t feel like the right match.
Counselling Session Options and Fees:
- Ongoing Counselling:
£60 for 50 minutes (online, in-person or walk-and-talk)
This is a regular therapeutic space for those seeking longer-term work. Weekly sessions are typically recommended at the start. If we both agree later on, we can move to fortnightly sessions.
- Assessment Session:
£45 for 50 minutes (online)
A one-off meeting where we explore whether we are a good match for ongoing therapy. We will talk about what has brought you here and what you hope to gain from counselling. There is space to ask questions and reflect on whether this feels like the right step.
- Concessions:
£45 for 50 minutes (online)
I reserve a limited number of reduced-rate spaces for students, the unemployed, or those on low income. Please get in touch if this would make therapy more accessible for you.
You can book sessions online through my booking system here. For any questions or to discuss in-person availability in Cardiff, feel free to email me at dorottyanagy@trueformtherapy.co.uk
Walk-and-talk therapy
Walk-and-talk therapy is a form of counselling that takes place outdoors rather than in a therapy room. We walk side by side at a pace that suits you, or pause and sit when needed. The focus remains on the therapeutic work, with the natural environment supporting the process.
For people experiencing burnout, this format can feel less demanding than sitting face-to-face. Walking can help regulate energy, reduce mental overload, and create a steadier way to engage when talking feels effortful. The rhythm of movement often supports thinking, especially when you feel stuck, depleted, or cognitively fatigued.
Who Walk-and-Talk Therapy May Suit
Walk-and-talk therapy may be helpful if you:
- feel mentally or physically drained and find traditional sessions hard to sustain
- struggle with focus, decision fatigue, or overthinking
- feel restless or uncomfortable sitting still for long periods
- find face-to-face conversations intense or exposing
- experience anxiety, stress, or low mood
- feel more at ease outdoors than indoors
- are neurodivergent and find movement or reduced eye contact supportive
- you find that walking helps you think more clearly, access your thoughts more easily, or feel less stuck
How It Differs from ‘Sitting’ Therapy
There are some practical differences compared to indoor counselling. Sessions take place outdoors, which means:
- there is less control over privacy, and occasional interruptions may occur
- weather and environment play a role, and plans may need to adapt
- movement is part of the session, rather than sitting in one place
Walk-and-talk therapy is not suitable for everyone. If you have mobility difficulties, certain health conditions, or prefer a fully private indoor space, traditional therapy may be more appropriate. We can think this through together.
The aim remains the same: to offer a consistent, supportive space where you can explore what matters to you. The difference is that this happens through walking therapy outdoors, which can feel more manageable for some people, particularly during periods of burnout or high mental load.
If you’re unsure whether walk-and-talk therapy would suit you, we can talk it through in an initial assessment session, which you can book via the booking page. If you have a specific question before booking, you’re welcome to email me and I’ll respond as soon as I can.
Where Sessions Take Place
I offer walk-and-talk therapy in Cardiff, either in Hailey Park, Bute Park or anywhere along the Taff Trail. These locations provide a range of quieter and more open spaces, allowing us to find a route that feels comfortable and suitable for the session. We will agree on a meeting point and general route in advance, and can adapt this depending on your capacity and preferences.