Frequently Asked Questions

Counselling is a talking therapy that can help you work through your problems and improve your mental health. It is a safe and confidential space where you can talk to a trained counsellor about anything that is on your mind. The NHS describes this as 'a talking therapy that involves a trained therapist listening to you and helping you find ways to deal with emotional issues.' This 

 There are plenty of reasons why someone might need counselling, here's just a couple:

• To cope with a mental health condition. Counselling can help people with a variety of mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. It can provide support and guidance as they work through their symptoms and develop coping mechanisms.
• To deal with a difficult life event. Counselling can be helpful for people who have experienced a difficult life event, such as the death of a loved one, a job loss, or a relationship breakdown. It can help them to process their emotions, understand their reactions, and develop new coping mechanisms.
• To improve relationships. Counselling can help people to improve their relationships with their partners, family, friends, and colleagues. It can teach them how to communicate more effectively, resolve conflict, and build stronger relationships.
• To make personal changes. Counselling can help people to make positive changes in their lives. It can help them to identify their goals, develop a plan to achieve them, and overcome obstacles.
• To improve overall well-being. Counselling can help people to improve their overall well-being. It can help them to feel more positive about themselves, cope with stress, and live a more fulfilling life.

Counselling can help you to:

• Understand your problems and your feelings.
• Develop coping mechanisms for dealing with stress and difficult emotions.
• Improve your relationships with others.
• Make positive changes in your life.
• Improve your overall well-being.

A counselling session typically begins with the counsellor asking you some questions about your background and your concerns. The counsellor will then work with you to identify your goals and to develop a plan to achieve them. The sessions will usually involve talking about your problems and your feelings. The counsellor may also use a variety of techniques, such as relaxation exercises or cognitive behavioural therapy, to help you cope with your problems.

Counselling is confidential. This means that the counsellor cannot share anything you tell them with anyone else without your permission. There are a few exceptions to this rule, such as if you are a danger to yourself or others. 

If you are not comfortable with your counsellor, you can always ask to see a different one. It is important to find someone who you feel comfortable talking to and who you feel understands your needs.