ABOUT COUNSELLING AND PSYCHOTHERAPY
The terms Psychotherapy and Counselling are often used interchangeably, which can be confusing. For me, Psychotherapy helps to address issues at a deeper level, perhaps working in an open-ended way to explore difficulties more fully, and gain greater insight and self-awareness into what is troubling us. For some people, a small number of Counselling sessions can be enough to work through their present difficulty and establish a better way forward.
Both Psychotherapy and Counselling can provide a safe, non-judgemental place to talk through whatever difficulties you might be having. Person-centred approaches are grounded in the belief that we all have the potential for positive change but sometimes this is hindered by life events or experiences. This can leave us feeling overwhelmed and without control of our lives; and lead to coping strategies which are not always helpful to us.
Both Psychotherapy and Counselling can provide a safe, non-judgemental place to talk through whatever difficulties you might be having. Person-centred approaches are grounded in the belief that we all have the potential for positive change but sometimes this is hindered by life events or experiences. This can leave us feeling overwhelmed and without control of our lives; and lead to coping strategies which are not always helpful to us.
WHAT ISSUES CAN BE HELPED?
People seek therapy for a wide variety of reasons and find that working through their difficulties with a supportive and empathic professional, can be of real benefit. The certainty of knowing you will be listened to without judgement, in a safe, confidential place, can bring with it a sense of relief. Some of the issues that lead people to seek help will often include; depression, stress and anxiety, relationship problems including physical and emotional abuse, experiences of trauma, loss and bereavement, sexual abuse or assault, substance mis-use, workplace bullying.
WHAT BENEFITS CAN BE EXPECTED?
In the midst of emotional difficulties it can be hard to see a way forwards and to feel isolated and alone. Being able to express, often painful, thoughts and feelings in a safe and supportive place, helps to see things more clearly and gain fresh perspective. Working collaboratively, the counsellor helps the client establish new ways of moving forwards and make the choices which are right for them. For some clients, the sense of empowerment and increased autonomy developed through counselling, is of benefit far beyond the therapy experience and enables them to live life more fully.
