Network Counselling is based at Elm Park in Filton and offers:
– Confidential counselling for individuals and a small number of couples
– A service that is affordable to all and open to anyone aged 16 or over irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, ethnic origin or religion
– A large team of qualified volunteer counsellors and a smaller number of student counsellors on placement as part of their professional training

They also offer services in Bath, operating from St Luke’s Church Centre, St Luke’s Road, BA2 2BB

Clients self-refer and once they have contacted us we ask them to complete a contact details form and general health questionnaire. Following receipt of their completed forms we arrange an Initial Assessment appointment with one of our duty counsellors. This provides an opportunity for clients to decide whether counselling at Network is the most suitable option for them at this time and to answer any questions or concerns they may have.

Generally assessments are only available between 9.00am-5pm, Monday to Friday at present. The assessment takes place at Network Counselling, Elm Park, Filton, Bristol BS34 7PS.

After the Initial Assessment – should they decide to go ahead – the next step is that their name will be placed on the waiting list for counselling. How long they will wait for counselling depends upon their availability, and how this matches with counsellors’ availability as it arises. At present, clients can expect to wait on average 7 – 8 weeks for a daytime appointment and 12 weeks for an evening appointment.

If clients are happy to be seen by a trainee counsellor, or have no preference about the gender of their counsellor, they are likely to be offered counselling sooner because there is more chance of a counsellor having a space which matches their availability. However, this is entirely their choice and they will be offered this choice at the initial assessment.

Regarding payment, we operate on the basis of donations. There is no fixed charge, but we do ask clients to contribute as much as they can reasonably afford. It costs Network £31 to provide each session. Those who are able to pay more will help those who can afford less. Please be assured, however, that we will never turn anyone away for financial reasons.

Further details can be found on our website at https://network.org.uk/