Personal experience of counselling by Patricia

28th June 2010

I began counselling sessions about two years ago. By then I had been severely ill with M.E/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome for 15 years and had starting making significant progress after having treatment from a London clinic which specialised in treating M.E. with nutritional and psychological methods. I had over the years improved on many occasions but had always relapsed severely so I was fearful that the same thing would happen again. I found using the various psychological techniques recommended by the London clinic effective in overcoming these fears. I was lucky to find a really good local therapist who understood M.E. to help me continue my progress. I was initially slightly apprehensive as I was unsure if her way of working would complement what I was already doing. I was also concerned that certain psychological treatments such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy have been known to cause relapse in ME/CFS patients.

However I found my therapist's approach very much complemented what I was already doing. She introduced me to new techniques such as visual journaling which I found helpful in identifying deep seated emotions. Her gentle and empathic personality made it very easy to talk to her. With her help I gained a lot of insight into areas which may have been hindering my recovery and am pleased to report that I have continued to make really good progress. I no longer need regular counselling but am in contact with my therapist.

The exact cause of M.E. is controversial but evidence now points to it starting as a physical illness but like many chronic illnesses there are also psychological factors which need to be addressed. I believe counselling is a treatment which if combined with other treatments can have a very positive effect for M.E./CFS patients.