Why do I need counselling?

All of us need counselling at some time - be it for bereavement, relationship problems or even to cope with distressing events and feelings which seem to have no end or solution in sight. It is only when we become aware of our own discomfort and difficulty in our lives that we realise that change may be needed.

Sadly, many people are thrust into situations beyond their control, beyond their choice and therefore are not prepared. Perhaps if counselling had been available to them they would have been supported rather than ignored, acknowledged rather than ridiculed and would now be able to sleep at night. Keeping busy can be a way of avoiding facing up to, and dealing with, trauma, yet we know that repressed feelings may be expressed in other ways: alcohol and drug abuse, violence, relationship breakdowns, mental illness, depression and so on. Other times we may have no idea what is making us feel the way we do. All relationships go through difficult times - it's how you handle those times that make the difference between staying together and splitting up. Many couples find that working through their problems together brings them closer. Some are able to do this on their own, but many others choose to consider counselling. Losing someone you love can be a shattering experience leaving you shocked, depressed, helpless, angry - and often a mixture of all of these emotions.

It is when we are unable to deal with our own anxiety and emotions that, we can make decisions that we may later regret. You may find it difficult to openly discuss your concerns and emotions without the fear of being ridiculed and therefore have never really experienced being listened to.

What is Counselling?

Counselling is a non-judgemental, facilitating process. Counselling provides a safe supportive and encouraging environment in which you are able to explore emotions and feelings. This allows the individual potential for growth to flourish.

Counselling can help you take time out from your situation and see it from a fresh perspective. Working with a counsellor gives you, or you and your partner, a chance to think about what you can do to change your situation for the better. It can also give you a chance to explore complex or difficult issues in a safe and confidential environment.

Counselling is about finding more effective ways of coping with concerns that currently are causing emotional distress and therefore making life difficult to manage. Counselling is a collaborative process that involves the development of a unique, confidential relationship. This unique experience is a dynamic personal interaction between both therapist and client. This is an experience that requires the commitment and effort from both parties. The aim is to assist you on your own journey of self-discovery, to find your own answers and take charge of your life, to become a human being rather than a human doing.