How it works
Getting started
If Simply Listening feels like it might be right for you, the first step is to have a brief, informal conversation. This allows us to talk through what you’re looking for and allows you to decide whether our service feels like a good fit.
What we do
Simply Listening is a non-clinical, discreet, one-to-one listening service, held in a way that feels comfortable and natural for you.
Sessions can take place in thoughtfully chosen settings. You may prefer to sit and chat over a coffee in a quiet café, go for a gentle walk while you talk, or connect by phone or online if that feels easier. Together, we’ll choose an environment that feels calm, respectful, and supportive.
Sessions are available by appointment only, with the option of either 60 or 90 minutes.
How often you choose to meet is entirely up to you. Some people like to talk more regularly during challenging times, while others simply want a space to debrief or offload when they need it. There’s no expectation or set schedule — you decide what feels right.
The experience is intended to feel relaxed and familiar, much like talking with someone you’ve known for a long time. There’s no agenda, no pressure, and no requirement to have a “story” to tell. You’re welcome to talk about whatever is on your mind, at your own pace.
While sessions may take place in public settings such as quiet cafés or outdoor spaces, care is taken to choose locations that feel unobtrusive and respectful. What you share remains confidential and is not repeated or disclosed.
Simply Listening is about conversation, presence, and care — offering you the opportunity to speak freely and be genuinely heard.
What we don't do
It isn’t counselling, therapy, or coaching, and it doesn’t replace professional mental health care. We don’t assess, diagnose, or treat mental health concerns, and we don’t offer clinical advice, strategies, or solutions.
What we do offer is something different — a calm, respectful space where you can talk freely, without pressure to be “fixed” or directed. The focus stays on listening, presence, and supportive conversation, rather than problem-solving or treatment.
We value and respect the important work of counsellors, psychologists, and other mental health professionals in our community. If you’re already working with a clinical service, Simply Listening can sit alongside that support — but it should never replace care that’s needed for your wellbeing.
If you’re unsure whether this service is the right fit, you’re always welcome to reach out and have a conversation before deciding.
Boundaries, Privacy and Duty of Care
Simply Listening is grounded in respect, care, and clear boundaries. These boundaries exist to support your wellbeing, and to ensure the service remains safe, appropriate, and ethical.
Privacy & confidentiality
What you share during a session is treated with care and discretion. Conversations are not shared, repeated, or disclosed.
Sessions may take place in public or semi-public settings, such as quiet cafés, outdoor spaces, or via phone or online. While these environments are chosen thoughtfully to feel calm and unobtrusive, complete privacy cannot always be guaranteed. Even so, your conversation remains confidential and is held with respect.
Boundaries of the service
Simply Listening is a non-clinical listening service. It is not counselling, therapy, or crisis support, and does not involve assessment, diagnosis, or treatment of mental health concerns.
The role of the listener is to listen — not to advise, analyse, or direct. There is no pressure to find solutions or make decisions during sessions.
Duty of care
Your wellbeing matters. If, during a conversation, it becomes clear that you may be at risk of harm to yourself or others, or that additional support is needed, the listener may gently pause the session and encourage you to seek appropriate professional or emergency support.
Simply Listening maintains a list of trusted crisis and mental health services and can help guide you toward these resources if needed.
A shared understanding
These boundaries help create a space that feels calm, respectful, and contained — a space where you can speak freely, knowing what to expect and what support is being offered.
If you ever feel unsure whether this service is the right fit, you’re welcome to reach out and have a conversation before booking.