If you have never seen a counsellor before, you may be wondering what it is like and whether they can help you. You may have formed some impressions through books, films, television, family or friends but the reality may feel rather different.
Counselling is a meeting between you and a qualified counsellor for an agreed time for the sole benefit of you. So, what we talk about will depend very much on what you want to achieve. My first aim is to provide a safe, confidential space in which you can explore whatever you like. I will focus on understanding you and what has happened to you, without judgement.
The relationship between us in counselling sessions is a unique one and research indicates that the quality of this relationship is the most important factor in the outcome of therapy. I believe it’s important that it is an equal relationship where we collaborate in your best interests. You are the expert on you and I will offer ideas and questions that feel relevant to help you make progress.
I am an ‘integrative’ counsellor, which means that the therapy is shaped to your individual needs. Tailoring your counselling specifically for you means that I can adapt multiple approaches to help you meet your therapy goals. I am passionate in my belief that people have an amazing capacity for change and growth. I work by providing an environment that helps people flourish and find their authentic self.
The way counselling can help varies for every individual. For many, being able to talk about their experiences in a safe and confidential environment is all it takes. Counsellors won’t generally give you advice or a list of things to do to get better. However, counselling can help you uncover your own insight and understanding and provide tools which will empower you to resolve your issues.
In the majority of cases, a single session won’t be enough to help overcome any issues you’re facing. Counselling usually takes time and consistency to work effectively so many people opt for regular sessions to make the most of the process. However, you are also welcome to choose how often to have sessions and vary the day and time to suit your needs.
Online counselling
As well as in person counselling, I provide counselling online via Zoom videocalls. This is an increasingly popular option and has some benefits. We can work remotely without the time and expense of travelling. Also, some people find it easier to talk about difficult topics when they’re not in the same room as someone else.
However, it is important to acknowledge the potential disadvantages. You will need to find somewhere suitable for the videocall where you feel safe to talk about anything that you want to discuss. I join sessions from my therapy room where there is no one else within overhearing distance and we will not be interrupted but I appreciate that it may not be easy for you to find somewhere where you can talk freely. Another potential disadvantage is that you are alone if you start to feel overwhelmed or distressed and we will discuss together how best to deal with this.
If you have any further questions about how counselling might work for you then please don’t hesitate to book a free initial 20 minute videocall, as part of this will be about answering your questions.
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