After deciding to see a counsellor many clients are still unsure as to what to ‘do’, or what will happen in a session. As a person-centred counsellor, I focus on each individual person so I do not have an agenda.
Typically, in our first meeting I will ask you to talk to me about what has brought you to counselling; you can ask any questions you may have about how we will work together and, if it would be helpful for you, to discuss what you would like from our sessions. You may not know this initially and that’s ok. If you decide to continue, subsequent sessions will allow you the space and time to explore your issue(s) further. I believe that through working together I can enable you to find your best way forward.
Speaking with someone who doesn’t judge you and who will listen and hear you, can help you to see yourself and your situation more clearly. You may no longer feel alone with confusing or difficult thoughts and feelings and may enable you to see them in a new light. This can simplify them and may help you to see a way forward, enabling you to work out what and how you want to change. It may also help you to recognise, come to terms and cope more effectively with those things out of your control that you cannot change.
In counselling, talking through sensitive or painful issues can be difficult, but it can also help to create a sense of order in our minds, and this can reduce anxiety. Having your experiences and feelings heard by a skilled listener can in itself bring relief and a fresh understanding.
The safe environment of therapy gives us the opportunity to understand ourselves within relationships. This process may support individuals to recognise the choices they have, and empower people to make changes and behave differently. It may enable you to take control of the choices you have.
As a counsellor registered with British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) I work in accordance with their Ethical Framework. https://www.bacp.co.uk/events-and-resources/ethics-and-standards/ethical-framework-for-the-counselling-professions/ I am fully insured and access supervision regularly to ensure that I practice safely and ethically. I am also covered by an enhanced DBS.
