You have overcome the first hurdle, which can be the most difficult, reaching out for someone to help you. There must be something in your life that is troubling you at the present time, causing you some anxiety or something that you need to talk to someone about that sometimes you can’t always share with a partner or loved one, close friend or family member. A counsellor can create that perfect space, confidential, a place of safety.

The words counsellor and therapist are often used interchangeably. A cognitive behavioural therapist/counsellor can help you navigate your way in life, making sense of your feelings and emotions and consequently what leads you to behave in any given way.

Sessions are interactive between the client and the counsellor. The counsellor is there to provide support and attention at all times, lend an empathetic ear and be non-judgemental. They will work closely with you over a period of time, encouraging you to overcome any obstacles that may be in your way, unlocking your full potential to lead a normal life free from worry, stress or anxiety.

Building trust:
The essential component in any successful counselling session is to build up a trust between the client and the counsellor. There are many counsellors and therapists available so it is important to find someone that you feel you can be open with and engage with honestly with complete transparency. This will be key for positive outcomes.

What to expect:
During a session, your therapist may take you through specific exercises designed to help with your problem, or you might have more general discussions about how you’re feeling. What you talk about will vary depending on what you want help with and the therapists approach. It could include:
• Your relationships
• Your childhood
• Your feelings, emotions or thoughts
• Your behaviour
• Past and present life events
• Situations you find difficult