About Counselling
Counselling is often referred to as "the talking cure". The effects of talking through painful events proved to be very helpful for soldiers during the First World War and since then it has been used effectively for many people in all walks of life.
The counsellor can offer respect, a positive regard and non-judgemental approach. This can allow you, the client, to explore thoughts and feelings which may be too difficult or painful to share with family or friends and allow you a private space to work issues through. Sometimes something can happen in the present which can trigger painful feelings from the past which we thought we had buried. Often, what has happened in the past, can influence how we react to situations in the present, causing problems in many aspects of our lives.
Counselling is not about giving advice as the objective is to enable you, the client, to find the right path yourself and to build on your own inner resources. The overall aim of counselling or psychotherapy is to provide an opportunity for the you to work towards living in a more satisfying and resourceful way.
The aim of the particular psychotherapeutic relationships will vary according to each individual's needs. Counselling may be concerned with addressing and resolving specific problems, or it could be about making decisions, coping with crisis, developing personal insight, awareness and knowledge, working through feelings of inner conflict and improving relationships with others.
With this in mind therapy is a developmental process. It is not a singular event - nor does it have a predictable outcome. It is a talking therapy which enables you to learn and understand about yourself. It will only go at your pace and you bring what you need to the sessions.
My role in helping you
Exploring these feelings, and the issues underlying them, is a challenging process and requires a commitment from both of us to nurture your growth, development and well being. Together we need to establish a safe, therapeutic relationship where you feel supported and understood, and within which the concept of change gradually becomes attainable. Your therapeutic sessions with me will hopefully lead you to an increased sense of personal control that will enable you to move positively into the future.
