I realise that seeking counselling, perhaps for the first time, is not an easy decision. I hope the following pages will provide you with the information you need in order to access help. 

 

 

 

Counselling is an opportunity to talk, perhaps for the first time, about experiences, thoughts and feelings that may be causing you concern. It provides a confidential place where you are listened to, without being judged and your point of view is respected.

 

Counsellors and psychotherapists offer one to one sessions, usually weekly, and will spend in-depth time listening to you, looking at your needs and concerns, and helping you adjust to some of the changes that are taking place in your life. Counsellors and Psychotherapists do not generally offer advice, but work in the belief that people can find strength within themselves, better understand their pain, cope with their grief more effectively and grow to heal. They will help you make sense of what you might be going through, provide you with support so that you can work out what is important and decide upon any changes you wish to make.

 

 

 

People seek counselling for many reasons, such as:

 

depression • low self-esteem, confidence and self-worth • anxiety • panic attacks • stress • bereavement or loss • relationship difficulties • emotional difficulties • coping with life changing events • compulsive, addictive or self-sabotaging behaviours, etc. 

 

Some may be upset by what is happening in their lives now, or be troubled by events in their past. Others may feel anxious, confused or depressed for no obvious reason.

 

Sometimes people use counselling when considering a life-changing decision, (for example, a career change, or a relationship change) or for personal development to understand themselves better.

 

 

This is not an exhaustive list, as the reasons why people seek counselling can be so varied.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Coleridge, Notebooks