Questions about Counselling and Psychotherapy
For more information look at these pages:
Counselling and Psychotherapy
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
Supervision and Consultation
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)
What is the difference between counselling and psychotherapy?
There is much overlap between these 'talking therapies' and the skills used in each therapy are similar. Both can help to deal with problems in a fresh way. Counselling and Psychotherapy are two terms used to describe the talking therapies. Counselling is the term used when a client contracts for a small number of sessions usually up to 10 sessions whereas Psychotherapy is the term used to describe the process of a much longer contract.
Counselling (or counseling) tends to focus on a specific life problem, while psychotherapy tends to deal with more deep-seated personal issues which may bring about really profound changes.
Fortunately, the distinction between counselling and psychotherapy is not a matter which need greatly concern anyone seeking help. Most practitioners of either therapy, before any commitment on either side is made, will want to be sure that the help they can offer is appropriate for the individual concerned.
How long does it take?
This depends on you, the counsellor and the problem. While deep rooted problems will need longer (one hour a week / fortnight for several months), short term counselling for a specific problem may take only a few weekly sessions.
Can you provide Online Video and Telephone Counselling?
Yes I can. Online Therapy can provide the necessary 'social distancing' and is especially useful if you are in Isolation or Shielding as a result of the CoronaVirus pandemic. Please contact me to discuss your requirements.
How regular is the counselling?
Generally counselling takes place for one hour per week or per fortnight. This is negotiable please advise me of your requirements and preferences.
What if I want to stop?
It is better to plan when to stop counselling from the start. That way we both know when your goals have been achieved and it doesn't leave any unfinished business hanging around.
What are your qualifications and experience?
Please have a look at "About me".
How can I contact you?
Making contact is easy to explain however, it is often less easy for you to do. Please remember that I work for you and that this is a confidential service, working to BACP's Code of Ethics that puts your interests first. Contact Me
What kind of problems do people come to counselling for?
People come for counselling for a variety of reasons some of which include, personal and professional goals or issues such as stress, abuse, anger, assault, confidence, self esteem, anxiety, bereavement, panic, sexuality and relationship issues.
Is the service completely confidential?
All that takes place between counsellor and client is treated with respect and discretion. An agreement is usually made at the outset on confidentiality. However, exceptional circumstances may arise when a client's consent will be sought for a change in this agreement.
Who are BACP?
The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) represents counselling at national and international levels and aims to promote counselling and psychotherapy throughout society and raise standards of training and practice. BACP has developed excellent Codes of Ethics and Practice for counsellors, trainers, the supervision of counsellors and counselling skills. The organisation provides support for counsellors and those using counselling skills. They also offer advice and guidance about therapy to clients
Where else can I get counselling?
There is a certain amount of free counselling through the NHS via your GP. Voluntary and charitable organisations offer counseling, free or at a small cost.
How do I know if I have chosen the right counsellor
The final judge of whether a counsellor is right for you can only be yourself and you must trust your own instincts. Talk to the counsellor first and then ask yourself if you would feel comfortable telling this person intimate details of your life, do you feel safe with them, do you like their manner towards you and could you be completely open with them? For people who are looking for a counsellor it is worth considering the following points:
- The counsellor should belong to an organisation with a recognised Code of Ethics & Practice such as the one produced by BACP. This sets a high standard to which members work and if a client has cause to complain it can be investigated under a proper procedure.
- Training and qualifications are good guide to a counsellor's capabilities and it is worth considering length of experience after basic training.
- Supervision means that the counsellor meets regularly with a colleague to talk over the work for support and discussion of problems. BACP considers supervision essential for the support of the counsellor and the well being of the client but some organisations only require supervision during training and for a number of years afterwards.
- Personal therapy, to many psychotherapists is considered the most important qualification. This means that the therapist has been a client in their own therapy helping them to understand themselves and others better. Avoid someone who has not had their own extensive therapy on top of the minimum basic training requirements.
Don't be afraid to ask your potential counsellor or therapist about any of the above. Remember, you are the buyer.
Any other questions?
Please feel free to contact me. All details can be found here