It may seem like a big step to seek counselling, something often thought about for some time whilst justifying all the reasons not to: "There are others worse off than me"; "I should be able to deal with myself"; "I don't want to make a fuss"; "What will people think of me?". Sounds familiar?
There is absolutely no shame in asking for help or support at a time when you need it most. Talking to those closest to us can help, but with counselling you are able to talk through your experiences with someone who will neither judge nor push their own views on what you should do. All too often people write off the need to access support as weak or pathetic, and yet reaching out at a difficult time in my experience actually takes a great deal of courage and is something I never underestimate. The counselling process itself can be either short-term (up to 6 sessions) or long-term depending on what you feel comfortable with. I do like to review regularly with clients to ensure that the therapy is working for you.
For me, the counselling process is all about discussing with you how you experience your problems and viewing your options together, finding the best way forward together. As an integrative counsellor I may use a range of different techniques from models of counselling theory such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, Brief Solution Focused Therapy, Transactional Analysis, Person-Centred Therapy etc. The most important thing is that you feel you are getting the right support for yourself to move forward in your life.
Below is a photo of my counselling room which I have endeavoured to make as calming as possible.
