Trainee Counselling Psychologist

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I apply?

Counselling provides a safe, confidential space to talk about stress, life experiences, or challenges affecting your mental health. It can help with issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship breakdowns, bereavement, or work-related stress. This counselling scheme aims to help Black women of African and Caribbean descent to access free counselling, overcoming barriers like long waiting lists or high costs

Who can apply?

You can apply if you are:

  1. A Black or Black mixed heritage woman or black trans woman

  2. Experiencing financial hardship and unable to afford counselling

  3. Over 18 and a full-time UK resident

  4. Committed to completing 15 hours of counselling


What are the benefits?

  1. Free counselling with trained professionals

  2. A safe and supportive space to share personal experiences

  3. Gain insight, new perspectives, and emotional support

  4. Sessions provided by BME women

Are trans women eligible?

Yes. All self-identified Black women, including trans women of African and Caribbean descent, are welcome. We do not ask about gender history. Our goal is a safe, affirming space for all Black women.

What type of counselling is offered?

Counselling is provided as 1:1 Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) by a trainee counselling psychologist under supervision by a qualified Counselling Psychologist. Sessions are delivered online.


How many sessions will I receive?

The Trainee Counselling Psychologist will provide  15 hours of therapy. 

Who is the Trainee Counselling Psychologist?

The sessions are delivered by a Trainee Counselling Psychologist in training. They are fully supervised by an experienced Counselling Psychologist, ensuring safe and ethical therapy.

How is my confidentiality protected?

Sessions are confidential.

Any recordings are used only for supervision purposes, with your consent.
Data collected (e.g., pre/post surveys) is anonymised and used solely for evaluation and improving the counselling services.

What if I am already receiving counselling?

The scheme is for people who are not currently receiving counselling or talking therapy.

Do I need to speak to my GP before applying?

No, you do not need to contact your GP before applying. However, you may wish to inform your GP, especially if you are taking medication or have other ongoing health conditions.

How do I apply?

Complete the TMAF Counselling Application Form.

What will I need to do?

  1. Commit to 15 hours of counselling (approximately 10–15 sessions).

  2. Complete pre- and post-session surveys and provide brief feedback.

  3. Follow your counsellor’s appointment, cancellation, and rebooking policies

Will I be paid for participating?
No, there is no financial reimbursement for participation.

What if I am not selected?

If you are not selected initially, your details will be placed on a reserve list, and you may be contacted if a space becomes available.

What if I miss a session?

Please follow your counsellor’s cancellation or rebooking policy. Missing two consecutive sessions without notice may result in being withdrawn from the scheme to offer the space to another applicant.

What happens after I complete the sessions?

You will be asked to complete a Warwick Post-Survey to help evaluate the impact of the sessions. Feedback helps TMAF improve and expand the programme.

Is there any cost to me?

No. This is a free scheme funded by TMAF to provide additional therapeutic support to Black women of African Caribbean descent.


Can I withdraw from the scheme?

Yes. Participation is voluntary — you may withdraw at any time by notifying TMAF staff and cancelling any remaining sessions with your counsellor.


What support is in place for the trainee counsellor?

Placement and training of the Trainee Counselling Psychologist will be monitored by UEL and the project team to ensure high professional standards.

Who can I contact for questions or concerns?

For general questions or support, please contact: counsellingsch@thelmamatildaalvesfoundation.com

Complaints Procedure

  1. If you have concerns or wish to make a complaint:

  2. Raise the issue directly with your counsellor where possible.

  3. If unresolved, contact TMAF to discuss the matter confidentially.All complaints should be sent directly to the Thelma Matilda Alves Foundation at counsellingsch@thelmamatildaalvesfoundation.com

Complaints will be kept confidential unless TMAF requires the third-party support in resolving the matter or if there is an immediate danger.

Both parties shall strive to resolve any disputes that may arise together informally, with honesty, integrity, mutual respect, and good faith as their guiding principles.