More About Counselling

What is Counselling?

"Counselling and psychotherapy are umbrella terms that cover a range of talking therapies. They are delivered by trained practitioners who work with people over a short or long term to help them bring about effective change or enhance their wellbeing."

 BACP Definition (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy)

The Person-Centred approach

...was developed by the psychologist Dr Carl Rogers (1902 - 1987), who proposed new humanistic ideas for counselling. These moved away from the old doctor/patient model of the counsellor as an expert/authority figure who knew everything about the client.

Rogers trusted in people and believed that if a safe psychological environment existed then all people would naturally move towards greater awareness and a better fulfilment of their potentials.

Recent developments in Neuroscience are proving that relational therapy can bring about changes in brain patterns.

Some FAQs & how we will work together:

During our first meeting we will discuss, amongst other things:

• when & where we will meet  - usually weekly

• how often and for how long   - I usually work for a full hour, longer sessions are possible and can be useful before a break (holidays) for example, at times of stress, or for couples work.

• fees, and how and when they will be paid   - I accept cash or cheques.  I offer concessions for those in need and for block bookings/payment in advance

• cancellation of sessions   - I do not charge when at least 24 hours notice is given.  Usually I will be able to offer an alternative appointment rather than having to miss a session

• confidentiality    - Everything you tell me is confidential, as is the very fact that I meet with you. An exception to this is if I think you are at serious risk of harm to yourself or others and then, unless there was an emergency, we would take time to discuss how to proceed,.  The only other time I would breach confidentiality is if required by law.

• endings & reviews   - Endings are an important part of the counselling process and we will spend time planning how and when to end.  We will review our work together on an ongoing basis, and renegotiate our agreement together if necessary.  

These will form the basis of our agreement to work together (sometimes called the counselling contract). They are not ‘set in stone’ and I aim to be flexible wherever possible.  I also know that the boundaries and certainties of counselling, are themselves part of the therapeutic process.