Why do people come to counselling?
People come to counselling for a variety of reasons, including:
- To gain a different perspective on things
- Because they feel they need support
- To speak to someone impartial to their situation
- To speak openly about their troubles without fear of judgment
- To get to know themselves better
- To help them through a time of crisis
- To help them come to terms with change or loss (including bereavement)
- To be supported while making a difficult decision
- To look at their self-esteem
How can person-centred counselling help?
Person-centred counselling can help you to:
- Clarify what you feel the real problems are
- Reconnect with yourself
- Make clear decisions
- Increase your confidence to take control of your life
- Explore difficult or painful feelings in a safe environment
- Re-establish what is important to you, away from the influences and opinions of others
- Come to terms with experiences which have caused emotional distress
How many sessions am I likely to need?
This is completely unique to each client and will depend on a of variety factors, such as your goals for the counselling and how much support you have outwith counselling. Some people may feel a few sessions is all they need, while others may wish longer term support.
Is the content of counselling sessions confidential?
Normally, everything spoken about during sessions remains between client and counsellor. However, there are certain notable exceptions, namely:
- If I think that you are in real danger of harming yourself.
- If I think that you are in real danger of harming others.
- If issues are raised involving harm to a third party.
- If certain legal implications are involved.
In the event of me wishing or being legally required to disclose details of our work together to a third party, I will wherever possible try to get your consent beforehand.
Also, as an accredited member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), I am required to have regular supervision, where I may discuss with my supervisor (another experienced, professional counsellor) aspects of my work with clients. However, I will not reveal details which could lead to any client being identified.
Do you keep notes of what is said in counselling sessions?
I often make brief notes about my work with clients so that I have something to refer back to as our work progresses.
These notes are kept in a secure place to which only I have access.
If you have any questions which haven't been answered by this website, please contact me. Details on my Appointments and contact details page. Further information on counselling and professional conduct can be found at http://www.bacp.co.uk/
(Updated 22/05/10)