Counselling - an explanation

Counselling offers you an opportunity to explore difficulties you are experiencing in your life. Most people have problems at some time in their lives and it helps to have someone to listen. Friends and family can be supportive but they may have problems of their own or you may not want to share intimate details with them.

A counsellor is trained to listen carefully to your problems and to support you while you find your own solutions. The relationship between the counsellor and the client is confidential and is based on respect and trust. You will not be criticised, nor will you be put under pressure to do or feel anything.

Counselling should help you to take control of your life and to understand the reasons behind your problems, which may help you to deal with these problems in the future. Often it is only when we talk to someone unconnected with our lives that we begin to hear what we are really saying and feeling and counselling offers you this opportunity.

There are many reasons for seeking counselling. You may be distressed and have difficulties with how you see yourself or how you relate to other people and certain situations. You may have experienced distressing moments in your past that are affecting you now.

Equally you may feel as though you lack direction in your life.