Frequently Asked Questions

I work with young people aged 12-25, adult men of all ages, and dads who want to improve their relationship with their teenagers. Each service is tailored to the specific needs of that age group and life stage.

Trauma-informed counselling is an approach that recognises how difficult experiences shape how you feel and behave. It creates a safe, non-judgmental space where we can explore challenges, build resilience, and develop healthy coping strategies. Rather than asking "What's wrong with you?", trauma-informed practice asks "What happened to you?"

Counselling typically focuses on processing past experiences, managing mental health challenges, and emotional healing. Coaching is more future-focused, helping you set goals, develop strategies, and create positive change. For dads, my coaching specifically focuses on rebuilding connection with teenagers through practical communication techniques and deeper understanding.

Yes, I offer online sessions across the UK via secure video platform. Many clients find online sessions just as effective as in-person, with the added convenience of accessing support from home.

I have two locations: Tavistock in Devon and Saltash in Cornwall. Both offer purpose-built, calm therapy spaces. I also provide online sessions for clients across the UK.

Individual sessions are £60 per hour. I also offer dad and teenager joint sessions for £75 per hour. A free 30-minute discovery call is available to discuss your needs.

Individual sessions are £75 per hour. I also offer packages: 4 sessions for £300, 10 sessions for £600, or 15 sessions for £1,000. A free 30-minute discovery call is available to discuss your needs.

Standard sessions are 60 minutes. The free discovery call is 30 minutes.

You can book through my online portal at Zanda Health, call me on 01822 661316, email hello@jeffdawson.co.uk, or message me on WhatsApp at 07547 897642. I recommend starting with a free 30-minute discovery call which is booked by emailing or calling me.

Yes, I offer a free 30-minute discovery call. This gives us a chance to discuss your situation, answer questions, and see if we're a good fit before committing to paid sessions.

Most clients benefit from weekly or fortnightly sessions, especially at the start. As progress is made, we might space sessions out. We'll discuss what works best for your situation and budget.

The first session is about getting to know each other and understanding what brings you to counselling. We'll discuss what you're hoping to achieve, how I work, and answer any questions. For teenagers, I focus on building trust and making them feel comfortable. There's no pressure to share more than you're ready to.

This varies greatly depending on individual needs. Some clients find 6-8 sessions helpful for specific issues, while others benefit from longer-term support. We'll regularly review progress and discuss what feels right for you.

For teenagers, I typically meet with them individually to build trust and confidentiality. However, I can include parents in some sessions if appropriate. For adult clients, partner sessions can be arranged if helpful.

I ask for 48 hours' notice for cancellations where possible. This allows me to offer the slot to someone else. My full cancellation policy is discussed during the discovery call.

I primarily work Monday-Friday during standard hours, but I can sometimes accommodate evening or weekend appointments. Contact me to discuss availability.

Yes, everything discussed in sessions is confidential. The only exceptions are if there's a risk of serious harm to yourself or others, or if there are safeguarding concerns (particularly with young people). I'll always discuss any concerns with you first where possible.

Yes, everything discussed in sessions is confidential. The only exceptions are if there's a risk of serious harm to yourself or others, or if there are safeguarding concerns (particularly with young people). I'll always discuss any concerns with you first where possible.

Yes, I hold a Level 7 Diploma in Counselling Teenagers, a Postgraduate Certificate in Coaching and Mentoring, MA Education, and BA (Hons) Youth Work. I'm a registered member of BACP (#389980) and NCPS, have an enhanced DBS check, Level 2 Safeguarding training, and professional indemnity insurance.

Yes, I receive monthly clinical supervision (1.5 hours) as required by professional standards. This ensures I'm providing the best possible support and maintaining ethical practice.

Yes, this is common. Many teenagers are initially reluctant. My approach is to build trust gradually, respect their autonomy, and make sessions feel less like "therapy" and more like a conversation. I use creative methods like conversation cubes, arts, and sometimes my therapy dog Teddy to help them feel comfortable.

Yes, I specialise in trauma-informed support for anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, life transitions, and emotional difficulties. My integrative approach means I draw on various therapeutic methods to suit individual needs.

I'm a private practitioner, so sessions are paid directly. Some private health insurance policies cover counselling - check with your provider. I can provide receipts for insurance claims.

Not every counsellor is right for every client, and that's okay. If we're not a good fit, I'll help you find someone who is. The free discovery call helps us both assess this before committing.

No, I'm a counsellor and coach, not a medical doctor. If medication might be helpful, I can discuss this with you and suggest speaking with your GP.

I'm one of relatively few male counsellors specialising in teenagers and dads, which brings a unique perspective. My trauma-informed, integrative approach means I tailor methods to each individual rather than using a one-size-fits-all model. I also bring lived experience and genuine understanding of the challenges men and dads face.

It means I draw on multiple therapeutic methods - person-centered, CBT, narrative therapy, play-based techniques - depending on what works best for you. Rather than being limited to one approach, I adapt to your needs.

Yes, my therapy dog Teddy can join sessions if you'd like. Many clients, especially teenagers, find his presence calming and comforting. He's completely optional and only present if you're comfortable with dogs.

Common signs include persistent anxiety or low mood, withdrawal from friends and activities, changes in sleep or appetite, declining school performance, increased irritability, or difficulty coping with life changes. If you're concerned, a free discovery call can help assess whether counselling would be beneficial.

Confidentiality is crucial for building trust with teenagers. I won't share session content without their permission, except in safeguarding situations. However, I can provide general updates on progress and themes we're working on, with your teenager's agreement.

Yes, counselling can help teenagers process emotions and develop communication skills. For dads specifically, my coaching program focuses on rebuilding connection and improving communication, even when your teenager is shutting you out.

Dad coaching is transformational coaching specifically for fathers who want to rebuild connection with their teenagers. Through practical strategies, understanding teenage brain development, and real-world communication techniques, you'll learn how to reconnect - even when they're pushing you away.

Coaching is more action-focused and future-oriented. Rather than processing past trauma, we focus on developing skills, setting goals, and creating positive change in your relationship with your teenager. It's practical, structured, and results-driven.

Yes, I'm developing "Lift and Shift" - a group programme combining fitness and group therapy for dads. I also offer my "Still Their Dad" guide, a comprehensive workbook with video lessons and practical tools. Check my Shop page for current offerings.