Counselling offers you a unique environment to discuss your concerns openly and without fear of negative consequences
The common aim of counselling is to facilitate clients in their process of decision making, finding direction and resolving their concerns by discovering parts of themselves that are equipped to deal with their current life challenges.
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The following are some of the most commonly asked questions about what counselling is and what it may have to offer.
What problems can Counselling help with?
Counselling is helpful for a broad range of issues, including the following.
Abuse
Addiction
Anger
Anxiety and stress
Bereavement and loss
Carer responsibilities
Depression
Divorce
Eating disorders
Health issues
Major life changes
OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder)
Phobias and fears
Redundancy and work issues
Relationship difficulties
Sexuality
Trauma
Violence
Worry
How can Counselling be of benefit to me?
Counselling helps you to gain a deeper awareness of your issue in order to facilitate change by:
talking through an issue in order to make sense of what has happened, and to put things in perspective;
making sense of a specific problematic event that sticks in your mind;
problem-solving, planning and decision-making;
changing behaviour;
negotiating a life transition or developmental crisis;
dealing with difficult feelings and emotions;
finding, analysing and acting on information;
undoing self-criticism and enhancing self-care;
dealing with difficult or painful relationships.
How long do I need to wait for an appointment?
The aim is to get you seen as soon as possible; 1-2 weeks is the usual wait time.
If for any reason you need to see someone more urgently then we are happy to put you on our cancellation list or help with a referral to another clinic.
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How long is a regular appointment?
A regular counselling session is usually 50 mins.
How many sessions will I need?
This will depend on the issue/s you are addressing and how long you need assistance to work through them. Short term counselling can be anywhere from 6-20 sessions and is usually when there is a sudden or unexpected crisis or interruption in our life.
Open ended counselling works well for those that have chronic or more complicated issues which may require intermittent ongoing support.
How is counselling different than talking to a friend?
Counselling offers you a unique environment to discuss your concerns openly and without fear of negative consequences. Whatever you choose to disclose during counselling is kept in confidence according to and in compliance with the Counselling Privacy code of conduct. Family and friends may find it more challenging to be completely objective, protect your personal disclosures, or become upset or overwhelmed by what you are sharing. It is a time set aside just for you to sort through your challenges.
If I’m feeling too overwhelmed or confused to think can the counsellor give me advice or tell me what I should do?
It is not the role of the counsellor to give advice or make decisions for you. A counsellor is there to help you to gather insight on your issues. To provide a safe and confidential environment without distractions, personal bias or judgement. Where you can discuss your thoughts, process them with additional clarity and form a plan of action.
TESTIMONIALS
“I had been suffering from work related stress and anxiety for 18 months or so when I first came to see Tina for counselling support.
My immune system was down, and my mental and physical health was at an all-time low. I was catching every cold and virus that was going around. Time off work meant more stress trying to catch up when I returned.
We worked on underlying and contributing factors as well as lifestyle changes including relaxation techniques. I now recognise the early signs of anxiety and can apply what I have learned in counselling to reduce and manage it.
I cannot say thank you enough for helping me to get my life back on track. I am in a very happy place right now. I also feel better equipped to manage any future challenges.”
Georgia.H.
“ I must thank you Tina, for providing me with a special space where I could talk openly about my issues. I always felt safe, supported and welcome. The room was comfortable and inviting; and helped me to relax. The insights I received with your professional guidance were always exactly what I needed.
I had felt like I needed to move forward, but I couldn’t seem to get there on my own. I had so much self-doubt, fear of making mistakes and of being rejected. I had a lack of self-confidence and had read every positive self-help book I could find.
It was through counselling that I developed the confidence and courage to make the changes that were necessary for my own well-being. I always felt heard, valued, understood and supported.”
Thank you so much for helping me to believe in myself again!