They are both types of ‘talking therapy’. The terms are often used interchangeably but the general current view is that Counselling refers to shorter term therapy when a client is wanting help with a current issue. Psychotherapy is more ‘in depth therapy’ and is often longer term and helps with issues that are of a more historical nature.
There is no set number of sessions. Therapy is not a quick fix and you should be prepared to come weekly for as long as it takes to affect change. Therapy is a commitment you make to becoming emotionally and mentally fit. In the same way that you would join a gym or pay for a personal trainer to get physically fit.
It is not the Therapist’s role to give advice or tell you what to do. The aim of therapy is for you, the client, to work out for yourself what changes you need to make in your life. The counsellor is there to support you as you make these changes. The therapist can educate you, and provide you with strategies and coping mechanisms to manage your current feelings and emotions.
Counselling has proved to be useful for the following:
Addiction
Loss and Bereavement
Relationship problems
Stress
Anxiety
Panic attacks
Depression
Distress
Suicidal Thoughts
Traumatic experiences
Harmful emotions and behaviours
Low self esteem and lack of confidence
Yes. The therapist will encourage you to talk openly and freely about yourself and your problems. All sessions are entirely confidential. Confidentiality is only broken if the therapist has concerns about your safety, or the safety of others. Or if they believe that you may be involved in something illegal.
Counselling/Psychotherapy is a way of working on improving your mental health without resorting to medication. Until you try it you will not know if it is right for you but talking to someone about your problems who is not a member of your family or a friend can make a huge difference.
Counsellors are trained people with skills that enable them to help and support you without giving advice in order that you can identify the underlying causes of your problems. This insight and understanding can help facilitate changes that will lead to a more fulfilling way of life.
When you make your first appointment with me you are under no obligation. Come and meet me and we can decide together whether we feel we can work together.