What is counselling?

Counselling involves talking and listening. Most of us, especially when we are going through a bad time want somebody to talk to who will listen and accept us. Sometimes it is easier to talk to a stranger than to relatives or friends. Counselling can aim to find the root cause of your problem and help you deal with it. It may help you change your behaviour or negative thoughts, It may simply aim to support you. Counsellors are trained to listen attentively and above all help you find your own answers without judging you.

Counselling provides a safe and supportive environment in which the process of exploration is undertaken between the counsellor and the client. The client is given the opportunity to talk through and reflect on problems past and present. The counselling process tries to help the client make sense of their feelings and help gain insights into their situation. It looks at different options for change if that is what the client wants.

Counselling is more likely to work if you feel comfortable and at ease with your counsellor. Finding the right person is as important as finding the right type of counselling.