A frequently asked question is 'What is it like to come to counselling?' So, I have written this description. Of course, counselling is different with every therapist so this description is what it is like with me.
The Initial Enquiry
You might have looked at several therapists' websites and directories and you might have decided on a few or just mine. You fill out the contact form and wait. No one likes waiting, especially, when emotion is attached. knowing this, I will send you a reply as soon as possible.
When I reply I will offer you a free 15 minute Introductory Call or you can book a session straight away, whatever feels best for you.
The Introductory Call
If you choose to book an Introductory Call we will arrange a day and time that suits you and you can choose a video call or a telephone call. The purpose of this call is to make sure we are a great fit. That means that our schedules match up at some part of each week, that you feel comfortable with me and that my training and ability match what you are looking for help with. It is usual to feel anxious or nervous for that first chat, but people tend to find that soon passes.
There is no pressure to book a session with me, you can go away and think about our Introductory Call, maybe, you have other counsellors to chat to before you make your decision, all I ask is that you let me know what you decide.
Starting Counselling
If you decide to start counselling with me I will send you my Welcome Pack, this has tips on making your environment safe and comfortable and important information including our Counselling Agreement which, sets out my responsibilities to you and your’s to me (namely, to engage in therapy).
What is counselling with me like?
When asked to describe what counselling feels like clients often say that it feels validating and they feel heard and understood. I hope all of my clients feel that way and I will do my best to create that environment.
Counselling is a process and studies have shown that it is most effective when the sessions are weekly, this gives the perfect time to process what has been talked about in the session before the next session.
Every therapist has their own style of counselling and mine is warm, calm, accepting, laid back, where appropriate humourous and basically like a chat. I find that some neuroscience, knowing the reasons behind feeling or behaving in a particular way, can be helpful and reassuring.
I am IFS informed which means that I can use Internal Family Systems to help heal parts of us that were hurt during traumatic or frightening times of our lives so that they don't negatively impact on our daily lives.
In counselling the client is always in control, they decide what they want to talk about and if they do not want to discuss a particular topic. You will never be shamed or made to feel guilty.
Depending on your goal for counselling, the duration can be a couple of months or a year or so, that is something we can discuss in the Introductory Call. Clients know instinctually when they no longer need counselling.
Oh, and by the way, there is no topic that can not be talked about in counselling.
If you would like to book an Introductory Call or you have a question, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
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