Is counselling for me?
We understand that if you haven't been to counselling before then making the first steps can be a little daunting.
Even viewing our website has taken courage, so here is a little more information that might help you. However, if you do have any questions please feel free to get in touch, no obligation.
What should I expect from counselling?
It might be helpful to think of counselling as a continuous process of change and healing rather than a fixed solution. To enable this you will be listened to and accepted without judgement, opinion or someone trying to 'fix' you. You are in charge of how your counselling sessions go, including how much you want to say and what you want to talk about. Your counsellor may gently probe with questions that will enable you to explore what you feel is important. You will not have to talk about difficult emotions unless you are ready to do so - you set the pace.
What happens first? ...
Your first appointment is an opportunity for your counsellor to find out a little more about what is currently going on for you. It is also an opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have and for you to decide if you feel comfortable and can see yourself working with them. Counselling is ultimately your decision.
Counselling is only effective when there is a solid trusting relationship between you and your counsellor.
The early stages of the process are about building that therapeutic relationship, finding out what you need to explore further and what, if any changes you would like to make and also agreeing to a way of working together.