Navigate Collective Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

What is Navigate Collective?

Accepted Answer

Navigate Collective is a facilitator-led peer-mentorship programme for young people aged 15-23. It provides a structured, supportive space where participants navigate life transitions, identity questions, and developmental challenges together through fortnightly 90-minute online group sessions over 12 weeks.

Question 2

Who is this programme for?

Accepted Answer

The programme is designed for adolescents and young adults (ages 15-23) who are navigating pressures related to exams, university decisions, identity exploration, family expectations, anxiety, and life planning. We run age-appropriate cohorts: 15-19 and 19-23.

Question 3

Is this therapy?

Accepted Answer

Navigate Collective is therapeutic but not clinical therapy. It's a peer-mentorship model facilitated by psychotherapist Jo-Anne Karlsson using IFS-informed approaches. Participants work on developmental challenges in a group setting, which differs from individual psychotherapy.

Question 4

How much does it cost?

Accepted Answer

The programme costs £147 per month or £400 upfront for the full 12-week term. This is parent-funded—no school funding is required.

Question 5

How does this compare to traditional therapy?

Accepted Answer

Traditional one-to-one therapy typically costs £100-150 per session. Navigate Collective offers fortnightly group sessions over 12 weeks at a significantly lower monthly cost, whilst providing the added benefit of peer connection and shared experiences.

Question 6

What is the time commitment?

Accepted Answer

Participants attend fortnightly 90-minute online sessions throughout the 12-week academic term. Sessions are scheduled in the evening to accommodate school and work schedules.

Question 7

Can my young person join mid-term?

Accepted Answer

For group cohesion and developmental progression, participants join at the start of each 12-week term. The next cohort begins in April 2026.

Question 8

What topics are covered?

Accepted Answer

Sessions address managing anxiety, building authentic confidence, identity exploration, life planning, exam stress, managing expectations, and navigating family dynamics. Topics emerge organically based on group needs whilst following a structured framework.

Question 9

How are the groups organised?

Accepted Answer

Groups are organised into age-appropriate cohorts (15-19 and 19-23) to ensure developmental relevance and peer connection. Each cohort has limited spaces to maintain intimacy and safety.

Question 10

What is IFS-informed facilitation?

Accepted Answer

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a therapeutic approach that helps participants understand different "parts" of themselves—such as the anxious part, the perfectionist part, or the part that wants to please others. This framework helps young people develop self-awareness and compassion.

Question 11

Are sessions recorded?

Accepted Answer

No. Sessions are not recorded to protect participant confidentiality and create a safe space for honest sharing.

Question 12

Is the programme confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes. What is shared in group sessions remains confidential within the group. Jo-Anne Karlsson, as a registered psychotherapist, adheres to professional confidentiality standards.

Question 13

Will schools receive reports on my young person's progress?

Accepted Answer

No. Navigate Collective maintains therapeutic boundaries. Schools act as signposting partners only—they share information about the programme with parents but receive no reports on individual participants.

Question 14

What about safeguarding concerns?

Accepted Answer

If a safeguarding concern arises (risk of harm to self or others), Jo-Anne is professionally obligated to break confidentiality and inform parents/guardians and relevant authorities as appropriate.

Question 15

How do sessions work online?

Accepted Answer

Sessions are conducted via secure video conferencing. Participants need a private space, reliable internet connection, and a device with camera and microphone. Technical support is provided before the first session.

Question 16

What if my young person misses a session?

Accepted Answer

We encourage consistent attendance for group cohesion. If a session is missed, participants can email Jo-Anne for a brief catch-up summary, but sessions cannot be made up individually.

Question 17

Can siblings join the same cohort?

Accepted Answer

Siblings are welcome to join Navigate Collective, but they will be placed in separate cohorts (if age-appropriate) to ensure each has their own space for authentic expression.

Question 18

Is 1:1 support available?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Jo-Anne offers individual psychotherapy sessions for young people who need more targeted support alongside or instead of the group programme. Contact info@joannekarlsson.com for details.

Question 19

How do I apply?

Accepted Answer

Visit the Apply Now page on our website or email info@joannekarlsson.com. You'll complete a brief application form, and Jo-Anne will arrange a short introductory call with you and your young person.

Question 20

When does the next cohort start?

Accepted Answer

The next cohort begins in April 2026. Limited spots are available, so early application is encouraged.

Question 21

What happens after I apply?

Accepted Answer

After receiving your application, Jo-Anne will contact you to arrange a brief introductory call. This ensures the programme is a good fit for your young person and allows you to ask any questions.

Question 22

Can my young person try a session before committing?

Accepted Answer

Due to the nature of group work and the importance of cohort stability, trial sessions are not offered. The introductory call helps determine fit before commitment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Programme Basics

Cost & Commitment

Programme Structure

Confidentiality & Privacy

Practical Details

Application & Next Steps

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