How Can Counselling Help Me?

You are the expert in your own life. Know it and own it!

As a Person-Centred counsellor, I believe that it is not counselling that helps you. It is YOU who helps you.  

The most profound insights about your life and what you need come from one source: YOU. You already have the answers as to how to make the changes you need in your life, for, you are the expert in your own life and no one on this planet can claim to know you better than you know yourself.

 Counselling simply creates a therapeutic space for you to explore these changes. No counsellor can ever claim to know you better than you already know yourself or know what is best for you, therefore it is vital to recognise that the driving force of change is not the counselling itself or the counsellor - It is all YOU.

I once discussed with my supervisor the challenges I faced with a client who seemed to be struggling to make progress. "Why aren't they getting better?" I wondered aloud. In response, my supervisor shared a powerful analogy that highlighted the client's role in creating change during therapy. My supervisor likened counselling to a boat ride. In this metaphor, you and your client are seated together in a boat, with your client at the front, steering the way. Your role, as the counsellor, is that of a passenger—there to provide unwavering moral support, sitting back, and gently pointing out interesting sights along the way during your shared journey. Crucially, you never take the reins to steer the boat. This analogy beautifully illustrates the essence of counselling: it's the client who determines the course of their therapeutic journey, while you, as the counsellor, offer guidance and support from the sidelines, never imposing your direction.

 The true power for change resides in your hands, making your journey towards healing and growth is a truly self-driven experience

So, Natalie, if I am the expert, why do need to pay someone to sit and ‘‘counsel’’ me?

Many people face hurdles at some point in their lives; feeling overwhelmed, finding difficulty navigating emotions, relationships, or personal struggles, and seeking counselling can be a valuable step towards finding clarity, healing, and personal growth.

Counselling is a collaborative and therapeutic process.  

The counsellor provides emotional support, an open heart and a listening ear, a safe space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Whether you're dealing with specific issues like anxiety, depression, or trauma, or simply seeking personal development and self-discovery, counselling can be a space where you practice ‘‘steering’’ in the right direction, whatever that looks like for you.

Below are just some of the many ways counselling supports you in identifying what changes you wish to make in your life and, working towards making these changes :

Emotional Support:

One of the primary roles of a counsellor is to provide a non-judgmental, emotionally warm and empathetic environment where you can freely express your thoughts and emotions. This emotional support can be especially helpful during times of crisis or when facing difficult life transitions.

Self-Exploration and Growth:

Counselling is not just for exploring problems; it can also support you in exploring your values, thoughts, feelings and goals, leading to personal growth and profound self-discovery. Counselling is a space where you can truly discover different parts of yourself.

Personal Insight:  

Counselling helps you gain a deeper understanding of yourself. Through meaningful conversations with your counsellor, you can uncover the root causes of your feelings or behaviours, which is often the first step toward making positive changes in your life.

Improved Coping Strategies: 

Life can be challenging, and at times, it may feel like you're running out of ways to cope. A counsellor can highlight strategies for managing stress, anxiety, and other emotional difficulties, empowering you to face life's hurdles with resilience.

Enhanced Communication Skills: 

Healthy relationships rely on effective communication. Counsellors can work with you to improve your communication skills, fostering better connections with loved ones and reducing misunderstandings or conflicts.

Building Self-Esteem:

 Low self-esteem can be a significant barrier to personal growth and happiness. Through counselling, you can work on building a healthier self-image and developing the confidence to pursue your goals.

Trauma Recovery: 

If you've experienced trauma, counselling can provide a safe space to process and heal from these painful experiences. Trauma-informed therapy approaches can support you in reclaiming control over your life.

Goal Setting and Achievement: 

Counsellors can work with you in exploring and setting realistic and achievable goals, whether they are related to your career, relationships, or personal growth. They can also encourage you to stay motivated and accountable as you work towards these objectives. During my initial calls with potential clients, one of the first questions I ask is what their personal goals are.

Stress Reduction:

Chronic stress can have detrimental effects on your physical and mental health. Counselling can support you with learning and practising stress-management techniques, enabling you to lead a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Positive Lifestyle Changes: 

A counsellor can support you in identifying positive lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthier diet, starting to journal, and practising mindfulness such as meditation, exercise routine, or sleep schedule, which can significantly impact your overall well-being.

A Renewed Sense of Purpose: 

Many people find that counselling helps them rediscover their passions and values, leading to a more meaningful and purposeful life.

Counselling is a valuable resource that can support you in various aspects of your life, from managing mental health challenges to achieving personal growth and self-discovery. Remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, and there is no shame in reaching out to a qualified counsellor when you need support. If you're wondering how counselling can support you, consider taking that first step towards a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life by scheduling a session with a trained professional today. Your journey towards improved well-being begins with this courageous first step.