What is counselling and its benefits?
Counselling falls under the umbrella term of “talking therapies”. It allows people to discus their inner most thoughts, problems and difficult emotions in a safe, confidential and supportive space. People often seek counselling when they want to change something in their lives.
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What is counselling and its benefits?
Counselling falls under the umbrella term of “talking therapies”. It allows people to discus their inner most thoughts, problems and difficult emotions in a safe, confidential and supportive space. People often seek counselling when they want to change something in their lives.
Generally a counsellor doesn’t give advice and tell you what to do, rather it is a process where the client can speak openly and in detail about what is worrying them and in doing so the client finds a way forward that is helpful for them. It is often finding the root causes of distress and about changing thought patterns and behaviours.
The counsellor may help create a plan of action and help you reconcile your issues and offer ways of coping.
Counselling can be useful for anyone who wants to explore their way of thinking as well as for anyone experiencing a specific issue they wish to resolve. People often to choose to speak to a counsellor rather than a partner, friends or family. This maybe because they don’t wish to worry those closest to them or because they wish to speak to someone who is a professional and is completely objective. A counsellor is always non-judgemental.
The way counselling helps does depend on the person going through the process. For many just having a safe space where somebody listens is enough. The client can explore their thoughts with a counsellor who is not biased in any way. For others it may go much deeper. Counselling is a journey and it does require commitment and “work” on the part of the client. It needs to be consistent and regular for a period of time.
What to expect
Clients may often feel nervous and anxious when visiting a counsellor for the first time. I always aim to put the client at their ease so that they know I am there for them. It’s my job to listen with empathy and congruence. In this first session you may well be asked what you expect and hope to achieve with counselling. I shall also try and find out more about the presenting issue, your current situation and its history. This is so that I can form a better understanding.
In general, all counsellors will set clear boundaries
Dates and times of sessions
Confidentiality agreement and contract
Clarification of the professional relationship
How and when the counsellor can be contacted outside of sessions
During the counselling process you may wish to discuss upsetting events, memories and emotions. This can often mean that at the start you feel worse and very tired after a session. My approach is to let you do this at your own pace. We can always stop if it’s becomes too painful. As you move through the process though you will become stronger and more able to discuss your issues. This in the long run helps you move forward.
