About Counselling
What is counselling?
Counselling is a general term for talking therapies, where you are provided with a safe, confidential and supportive environment to share what is troubling you and are listened to in a way that helps you understand yourself better. The aim of counselling is to help you find more effective and satisfying ways of living your life.
Counselling is not like talking to a friend. It is far more effective, not offering advice but instead giving you a fresh perspective, helping you find your own understanding of what you are dealing with, and helping you develop your own coping strategies. Talking to a professional rather than a friend or family member allows you the space to deal with your issues. Your counsellor is not personally involved in your situation, can offer impartial empathy and compassion, and will not take what you say personally.
The main forms of counselling include:
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Integrative counselling (a blend of the approaches above dependant on the client's individual issues)
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Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
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Humanistic / Person-centred therapy
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Psychodynamic
Who can benefit from counselling?
Counselling is most beneficial when you are willing and ready to accept help - to look at yourself and your issues honestly and attentively.
The majority of people seeking counselling are looking to deal with their problems, gain greater confidence and move forward with life more effectively. It is an investment in yourself. Although it can be very rewarding, change is not always easy.
What issues can counselling help you with?
Counselling can help you deal with a wide spectrum of issues, from day-to-day worries and stresses, to distressing and traumatic events such as the loss of a loved one or a relationship breakdown, long term psychological challenges like depression and anxiety or past trauma.
Click here to see the areas I specialise in.
How many sessions will I need?
Your time in therapy will depend on the issues you want to address and your progress. Either a short-term course of sessions over a period of weeks or longer as required.
I offer counselling in the following formats
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Individual (face to face)
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Telephone counselling
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Online counselling