Anxiety

It's good to talk - how counselling can help

This article was written by a former member of Counselling Directory.

Published on 9th January, 2017

We all meet challenges and crises in life; many of us will manage these with the support of friends and family. But, sometimes the problem is so entrenched or the crisis so big, that the resources and support we have seems not sufficient to cope. It is at these times that the experience, empathy and encouragement given by a counsellor can help us regain our perspective and enjoyment in life.

Sadly, for some, there is still stigma attached to the need to seek outside assistance. Yet, asking for what we need - particularly in times of distress - is not a weakness. It's an act of strength.

Reaching out shows a courageous acknowledgement that we are not coping and that we need more than our friends and/or family can give. It shows recognition that we are worthy of asking for and receiving the help we need.

Perhaps the difficulty lies in a recurring pattern of behaviour; preventing the development of close personal relationships, a growing awareness that something is missing in life, or the loss of a relationship or loved one, leaving you feeling life has lost its purpose and enjoyment.

Whatever difficulty you're experiencing, and whether you believe it is too small to bother with or too big to handle, if it is stopping you from enjoying life and getting what you want from it, exploring it in counselling can help open new avenues and choices.

It means talking to someone who has time just for you, who will always listen without judgement, no matter what you bring.

A counsellor will be empathic and respectful and can bring new awareness into the ways we think, feel and act. Everything you share is important and confidential and will stay between you and your counsellor.

Yes, you are paying for their time and expertise, but as a therapist once said to me, “You can buy my time, but you cannot buy my caring.”

And for me, that unconditional positive regard within the relationship is the most significant factor in any form of counselling or therapy. Knowing that I am important to them, that they really care about me, and no matter how I am or what I bring, that doesn’t change.

Connect with a counsellor today. You can search from over 19,000 therapists online and across the UK easily using our advanced search tool. Simply browse profiles until you find a counsellor you resonate with, and send them an email.

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The views expressed in this article are those of the author. All articles published on Counselling Directory are reviewed by our editorial team.