Counselling is a semi-structured dialogue that occurs between two or more individuals. Its objective is to help the client cultivate new perspectives and ways of thinking. As self-aware beings, humans possess the capacity to reflect on and generate emotions consciously. While this ability enriches our experience, it can also lead to challenges, as our thought patterns can significantly influence our feelings and actions.
Falling under the umbrella of 'talking therapies', counselling provides a confidential and secure space for individuals to discuss their situations. A counsellor listens attentively and respects the client as an individual, fostering a trusting relationship. This environment is non-judgmental, allowing for a genuine exploration of thoughts and feelings, with the counsellor remaining neutral regarding the client's beliefs and values.
ACCPH views counselling as a form of psychotherapy that refrains from offering direct advice or prescribing a specific path for the client to follow. Counsellors are committed to not exploiting their clients. Instead, they encourage open dialogue about troubling issues, aiming to uncover underlying causes and understand their impact on the client’s thinking. Over time, the counselling relationship develops, enhancing trust and enabling clients to express and process emotions such as anger, anxiety, grief, and embarrassment in a healthier manner.
Counselling sessions are adaptable, with formats including:
When selecting a counsellor, it's beneficial to understand the various therapeutic approaches they may employ. You may find one approach resonates more with you than another; if so, don't hesitate to ask the counsellor for an explanation. Common categories of therapy include:
Many counsellors employ an 'integrative' approach, drawing from multiple therapies to tailor their practice, while others may adopt an 'eclectic' style, blending techniques as needed for each client.
Counselling can assist individuals facing a variety of challenges. For a comprehensive list of common issues addressed by our therapists and coaches, please consult the Common Problems page. Keep in mind that not every issue may be suitable for counselling, and not all possible concerns are listed.
Counselling provides a safe, non-judgmental, and confidential space for individuals to express their thoughts and emotions freely. In this environment, you can explore your feelings with an unbiased professional, avoiding the unintended consequences that sharing with others in your life might provoke.
It's important to note that counsellors typically do not offer advice or dictate actions to alleviate your concerns. A skilled counsellor will guide you in uncovering your insights, thereby enhancing your understanding of your problems. Rather than being a quick fix, counselling is akin to a journey—one that takes time and requires consistent effort from the client to be effective. Regular sessions are recommended to achieve the best outcomes.
Engaging in counselling can enhance your understanding of yourself and others. This deeper awareness enables you to make more informed judgments about interpersonal interactions, reducing the likelihood of being unduly affected by others as you may have been in the past.
While counselling often involves discussing and processing painful thoughts, emotions, and memories, initiating this process can be challenging, and you may initially feel worse. However, confronting these issues is essential for progress, and you will soon start to feel better. Some sessions may feel less impactful, while others could yield significant breakthroughs. Remember, counselling is a long-term process designed to assist you, and no two sessions will be identical.
During your first session, typically referred to as an Initial Assessment, your counsellor will ask you a series of questions about yourself and your concerns. It’s crucial to respond honestly and thoroughly, as this information will inform your counselling experience. Establishing a trusting rapport with your counsellor is vital; if you ever feel uncomfortable with your chosen counsellor, it is perfectly acceptable to seek someone else. Prior to commencing sessions, your counsellor will clarify the boundaries of the counsellor-client relationship, including confidentiality, conduct, appointment logistics, and payment arrangements.
