What is the difference between counselling and therapy?
These two terms are often used interchangeably because they often overlap in many areas. Therapy can be described as the process of gaining an understanding and insight into one’s feelings, emotions, behaviour, or ways of thinking, by talking to a trained professional. Counselling will be part of that process, and will focus on specific ways in which certain problems can be tackled, or on finding solutions to specific, immediate problems. So, counselling is a part of therapy, and they often go hand in hand.
How can I know that counselling is for me?
Counselling is not limited to a certain type of problem. Therapy can help with all sorts of issues, and no problem is ‘too small’ as far as your therapist is concerned.
How do I know that a counsellor I choose is qualified and safe to work with?
The best thing is to check the BACP (British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy) register of counsellors and psychotherapists to see if your therapist is on it. The BACP register of counsellors and psychotherapists, is accredited by the Professional Standards Authority for Health and Social Care. The members of the register are bound by the Ethical Framework for Good Practice in Counselling and Psychotherapy, and would have met the professional standards for registration. For more information, please see a link to the BACP website at the bottom of this page.
If I seek counselling, does that mean I am ill or there is something wrong with me?
Seeking counselling does not mean that. It means that the client recognizes that they are struggling, and they decide to let themselves be helped. Counselling or therapy is not about treating. It is about helping.
How long will the therapy take?
There is not one simple answer to that. During the first session the therapist and the client will discuss the expectations and possible outcomes of therapy. The agreed length of therapy will depend on the individual client and their needs. Some clients may only need a few sessions, and some may wish to engage in more long-term work.
What will I have to do?
There is nothing that the client will be forced to do or say. The client is in control of what issues they want to talk about, and what they do not wish to discuss. The counsellor will never push the client to say or do anything that the client does not feel comfortable with.
Are my problems big and important enough to seek counselling?
Any problem or issue that is making a client unhappy, or stops them from enjoying their life, is a serious problem, and will always be treated by the counsellor as such.
Will I feel better after my counselling is finished?
Usually the clients do feel better, yes. That, of course, does not mean that all of the client’s problems have been solved, or that they will never feel upset or bad in the future. The counselling has started a process in which the client will feel more empowered by their own ability to help themselves, and able to tackle life’s problems in a better way, and outside of the therapy room. Many clients are surprised to find how empowered they feel after the therapy has finished.
Availability
My current availability to see clients is Wednesday and Thursday evenings. I also offer online counselling where I can offer more flexibility. Please see my Online counselling section, or contact me for more details.
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Appointment Length
The sessions last 50 minutes, and usually take place on the same day and at the same time every week, both for face-to-face and online sessions.
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Appointment Fees
The fees are £45 per session.
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