Five Myths of Counselling – busted!

Nov 15, 2019

 

We visit the GP when we are sick, visit the dentist to keep our teeth healthy. Yet when it comes to looking after our mental and emotional health…? The myths of counselling can stop us accessing the support we need. Many people feel embarrassed and nervous about seeing a counsellor.

Taking care of our mental health is an essential. The stigma around counselling may create an unnecessary barrier to living life to the fullest. Are these myths about counselling stopping you from getting the support you need?

 

Myth 1 – Counselling is only for people with severe problems        

Most people seek counselling for everyday issues like relationship problems, sadness, grief and anxiety. It is true that counselling can help those with severe problems, however, attending counselling when problems are mild to moderate can prevent them becoming severe. I invite you to contact me to discuss your worries. You may think your worries are not as bad as others or that they may be overwhelming that you don’t know where to start. Lets work it out together. 

 

Myth 2 – I should be able to deal with my own problems      

When we try to work through problems, we can be left with the thoughts going around in our head. When we are immersed in our problems it is hard to think straight. A counsellor is trained to help see problems from a different perspective, often feeling like a lightbulb moment! Each counselling session is unique to you, focusing on you, which will give you a unique experience.

 

Myth 3 – the counsellor will just sit there and nod  

Oh the stereotypes! Counselling is not a chat over coffee, I listen, I really listen to what is going on in your life. I will work with you to clarify your thoughts, feelings and identify the changes you wish to make. Modern day counselling is active and engaging. Take a look at my blog about the ‘Role of the Counsellor’

 

Myth 4 – Everyone will know I am seeing a counsellor          

I am bound by professional ethics to protect your confidentiality and privacy during and after counselling ends. I am a member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and follow their code of ethics. Only in extreme cases when someone is in imminent danger or a court orders records to be released, can confidentiality be broken. I always explain confidentiality at the start of our relationship so you can feel confident in what you say knowing won’t go anywhere else.

 

Myth 5 – Counselling is expensive and takes forever          

The goal of counselling is to help people effectively manage life’s challenges. Counselling is a financial commitment and can be a seen as ‘luxury’ however, we are able to finance gym memberships, weight loss groups, retail ‘therapy’ or turn to alcohol or drugs to make ourselves feel better. Research has shown that most issues can be addressed with effective, short term counselling. Money well spent!

 

The truth is, counselling is all about having time to devote to helping yourself. When life becomes difficult working with a friendly, down to earth and professional counsellor can be invaluable. I can help you see things from a different perspective, help understand what is happening to you.

It is important you feel comfortable with your counsellor and my aim is to help you feel this way by offering a warm, comfortable space to explorer what is bothering you.

Do not let the myths of counselling stop you from getting help and do not struggle on alone. Lets have a chat and see what we can do together.

Recent blog entries

To repeat or not to repeat?

Have you ever noticed that the same circumstances show up in your life over and over again? Do you...

Push yourself

Push yourself to get up before the rest of the world - start with 7am, then 6am, then 5:30am. Go...