Frequently Asked Questions – Appointments

Where can I see a Relate counsellor?
We have a number of different locations across the five boroughs of Barnet, Brent, Ealing, Harow and Hillingdon where Relate counsellors are available. When you contact us to make an appointment you can request a particular area and we will try to fit your time and location needs to the available counsellors.
See our locations

How do I make an appointment with a Relate counsellor?
To make an appointment for any of our counselling services please call us on 020 8427 8694

Do I have to be referred to Relate?
You do not need a referral to make an appointment for any of Relate’s services. Simply contact us on 020 8427 8694

Can I come on my own?
Yes. At Relate we see individuals, couples and families.

How much will it cost?
We ask our clients to pay a fee of £45 for the initial consultation with a counsellor and the cost of ongoing sessions are agreed between you and your counsellor according to what you can afford. The initial session with a counsellor is free to those under 18 years of age. Please note we do not turn away anyone who is unable to pay for their time with our counsellors and subsidies are always available for those on low incomes.

How often will I have appointments with a Relate counsellor?
Counselling Sessions are usually once a week for up to an hour.

How long will I have to come for Relate counselling/sex therapy?
Counselling will continue for as long as you and the counsellor think it is helpful. The number of sessions depends on you. Most people find between five and ten sessions is about right for counselling, those coming to sex therapy can expect to attend for longer.

Can I bring my children with me?
Relationship Counselling, Sex Therapy, and Family Mediation are services for adults only. Relate does not have creche facilities at its counselling locations and so is unable to offer childcare. Please make arrangements for your children to be looked after during your appointment. Family Counselling often involves both adults and children in the session and so children will be invited to come along and participate.

Can I have a counsellor who speaks my language? 
In order to make it possible for you to be seen as soon as possible, and in the location of your choice, Relate will not look to allocate a counsellor on any specific ethnic criteria.  If you do not speak English we will try to allocate a counsellor who speaks your language. If this is not possible, when funding is available, we can provide interpreters and signers for the deaf.

How do I let you know if I can’t come to my appointment?
If you are unable to come at the time agreed for your appointment please call the appointments office as soon as possible. Relate London North West Appointments: 020 8427 8694
Please note if you cancel less than one day before your appointment you may still be asked to pay for the cost of the session.

What happens if I have a complaint about Relate counselling?
We welcome feedback and want to hear your views on our services. Please take a look at our complaints procedure here.
Make a complaint

Frequently Asked Questions – Relate Workshops and Training

How often are Relate Workshops and Training Courses run?
Most Relate courses run several times a year. Please take a look at our current programme for more details. Relate Workshops and Training Courses

How do I book a place on a Relate Workshop?
To book for one of our training courses or workshops please call on 020 8427 2801
or email Relate Workshops

What is the cost of a Relate Course/Workshop?
The cost of Relate Training Courses and Workshops is varied. For details of a particular workshop or course please look at our programme
Relate Workshops charges and Training Courses charges

FAQ – Appointments  FAQ – Services  FAQ – Mediation
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