Frequently asked questions

How long is each session and can I have fortnightly counselling?

Each session lasts a "counselling hour" which is 50 minutes. This allows the therapist to make required notes and to review his notes for the next client. Sessions are weekly only, therapeutically this is optimum, allowing the client to keep the work going at a steady pace. Fortnightly sessions also run the risk of big gaps between sessions, especially if a session is missed or counsellor/client is on annual leave.



Do you offer a reduced rate?

I'm afraid there are no reduced rates as I have decided to keep the fee as low as is possible for all. If money is a barrier you can have a few sessions then take an extended break to work on the issues we've identified. Alternatively, if you feel able to appraoch your church, they may be able to pay for your sessions in full or part.



Do you offer video counselling (Facetime, Skype, Zoom, etc.)?

I do not offer video calls for a number of reasons. 1. There is a significant delay in video calls that make it almost impossible to have a naturally flowing conversation. 2. There is often a poor reception, or other Internet connection issues. 3. Because of the placement of cameras on laptops, PCs, phones, etc. it is impossible to look eachother in the eye whilst conversing, this is therapeutically problematic.



Do you offer couples or marriage counselling?

I no longer offer couples counselling but can highly recommend my colleage Susie Kydd. Her website can be found here: www.christiancounselling.london



Do I have to sign up for a minimum number of sessions?

No. You can choose to have any number of sessions but they must be delivered weekly whilst in counselling. You can choose to terminate your counselling at any point up to 24 hours before your next scheduled session. Within 24 hours, cancellation is still charged.



Do I have to be in a certain denomination or have a certain theology?

No. I have been thrilled to counsel brothers and sisters from across multiple denominations, and many whose theology would differ from my own. I do not 'impose' my theology on you but the work may involve exploring how yours effects you and how it can be challenged and/or affirmed.



Can I get my church/charity/diocese to pay directly?

For administration reasons as well as for the client's therapeutic good, I do ask that clients pay directly (as per terms and conditions) and reclaim from their organisation themselves. I'd be happy to expand on this decision during the first consultation.



Do you perform exorcisms?

I do not offer this service; I would refer you back to your pastor/leader should you believe you are demon possessed. Exorcisms can take many hours, even over many days, this cannot be structured in to 50-minute, weekly counselling sessions. I can work with those who feel demonic oppression in line with the scripture's teaching on spiritual warfare however (Eph 6:10-18)



Can you heal miraculously, raise the dead, or give a prophecy of the future?

No, I believe that the sign gifts of healing, prophecy, raising of the dead, and speaking and interpretation of tongues were given specifically for the Apostolic era. My position is described as cessationist. This does not mean I cannot work with those of a continuationist or charismatic position, I have done so many times in the past to the great blessing of both client and counsellor.



Testimonials

"I have recently finished 18 months of counselling with Dean, and he has been fantastic!  The process has radically changed my life for the better - when I arrived at my first session, I had severe PTSD and trust issues, Dean offered a willing ear and wise advice. I have moved from being unable to open my bible or talk about or to God (despite growing up in church) to reading my bible regularly and helping in my church while having a discipleship group I am growing with. I was very cynical when I started this process, but I would wholeheartedly recommend Dean to anyone looking for wisdom, gentleness in character, and a very safe space to process your emotions and experiences. Thank you for everything, Dean, my counselling journey with you has been a huge blessing and radically changed the course of my life for the better!" ~ Helen*

"I had been suffering with depression and anxiety for at least a couple of years before I started seeing Dean. It was after a particularly mixed time in my life. Dean has helped me to see more of who I am in Christ, gently listening, challenging and encouraging this weary soul. He has reminded me that reeds can be bruised, but will not be broken. I can see light now, though I feel we’re not finished yet, Dean has been worth every penny, and more! I would commend this brother to you!" ~ Steve*

"I have been referring people to Dean for a number of years and have been very grateful for this partnership in caring from God's word for people in many different situations. I trust him to be Biblical and wise in his counsel."

~ Rev Andrew Nicholls

Committee Member for Biblical Couselling UK (BCUK), Director of Pastoral Care at Oak Hill College, London.

* Names changed to stay in line with client confidentiality

© 2018 Dean Foley