People seek counselling for a variety of reasons. It may be that they have a specific problem which has become unmanageable for them or sometimes they may feel dissatisfied or generally unhappy without actually knowing exactly what is troubling them. Most of the time we find ways of dealing with such problems by talking to family, friends, neighbours or our family doctor. Unfortunately sometimes we just do not have the appropriate person to talk to and occasionally their advice is not sufficient. Sometimes we can be embarassed or even ashamed to share what is really bothering us. It can be that our lives change for a number of reasons and this creates a change in how we are able to cope with issues.
Counselling is a type of talking therapy that allows you to talk about your problems and feelings in a safe and confidential environment without being criticised or judged. The counsellor is trained to listen with empathy and help you to deal with any negative thoughts and feelings that you may be experiencing and help you to find ways to move forward in life in a more positive way. It may be that you only need a small number of sessions, however, sometimes it may take longer and your counsellor will be able to support you around any changes. There are many different theories and approaches within counselling and again this would be discussed and adapted in your sessions to best suit your needs.
Seeing a counsellor provides the opportunity to share whatever it may be that is worrying you or giving you distress to manage day to day life.
Counselling can help with:
- Feelings of anxiety
- Depression or sadness and to find a more positive outlook on life
- Bereavement
- Coping with a relationship breakdown
- Redundancy or work-related stress (including exam pressure)
- Exploring issues such as sexual identity
- Dealing with issues preventing you achieving your ambitions
- Trauma
- Eating disorders, succh as anorexia and bulimia
- Borderline personality disorder (BPD)
- Obessive compuslive disorder (OCD)
- Post Traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Long-term illnesses
- Self-esteem
- Developing a better understanding of other peopel's points of view