Counselling is an active process that is designed to give you the time, space and encouragement to explore and understand the issues you bring. The role of the Counsellor is to provide you with a secure framework in which to reflect upon your circumstances and work on your problems actively & objectively.

What kinds of problems can I talk to a counsellor about?

There are no hard and fast rules. If something is troubling you it is worth spending time resolving it. There are a number of issues that frequently come up, for example:

• Relationship difficulties. Family & friends, colleagues, commitment, jealousy, abuse etc.
• Family issues. Partners, children, parenting, separation and divorce, homesickness etc.
• Lack of confidence. Worried about failing, never being good enough, feeling judged etc.
• Depression. Feeling isolated, lonely, empty, tearful, unloved, suicidal etc.
• Repeated destructive behaviour. Binge eating, harming yourself, abusive relationships, alcohol, drugs etc.
• Exam and study stress. Out of control, panic attacks, feelings of inadequacy etc.
• Bereavement. Loss, anger, loneliness, sadness & depression etc.

What will the Counsellor think of me for being in a mess?

Many of our problems arise just because we are human. We all make mistakes and have to learn from them, and it is normal to face difficulties. It is usually because we are pushing ourselves too hard; the reasons we don't fully understand or we are suffering some from a mental distress.

Therefore judging clients is not helpful or relevant; they need to be supported in finding their own way out of the problem.

Doesn't asking for counselling mean admitting failure?

Actually it is a matter of strength to ask for Counselling. Many think they are being strong in not seeking help but those who can accept difficulties would be the strong ones. Counselling means you have taken the first step on the road to resolving the problem.

How confidential is counselling?

Counsellors work to a strict Code of Ethics which means they must inform you of the limits of confidentiality and then stick to these rules. Usually everything one says is kept confidential to the counselling service unless there is clear evidence someone may be at a severe risk.

Wouldn't I be better to try and sort it out for myself?

Of course there are ways you can help yourself – but counselling is one of the better answers to distressing situations