If you are thinking about getting counselling, you may be wondering what you’re actually going to be getting once you’re sat there talking to someone. Read on to find out what to expect.
There are three main approaches to counselling, with many sub-categories within these categories. You may not have a choice over which type of counselling is offered – although some services are able to offer a choice. However, all counsellors will tailor what they offer to suit it to what you need.
Psychodynamic counselling
Counselling which focuses on patterns of relationship, often helpful in understanding how early experiences might be affecting you in the present. Especially helpful for untangling ‘baggage’ which may be holding you back in your current relationships and attitudes to others. Understanding how your current attitudes and ways of interacting with others are caught up in old hurts can free you to choose more constructive ways forward.
Person-centred counselling
Counselling which respects individual uniqueness and steers clear of any form of advice, preferring to support you in finding your own meanings and solutions. Especially useful when your main need is for caring, non-judgemental support and a neutral space where you can get things off your chest.
Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT)
Counselling which is solution and action-focused, especially helpful in tackling unhelpful thinking habits. Has strong evidence for effectiveness in treating both depression and anxiety. Lends itself well to self-help – much of the self-help information on this site is based on CBT – so can be used alongside other approaches to counselling. CBT requires commitment and willingness to carry out ‘homework’ tasks and work towards agreed goals.
Integrative counselling
Many counsellors integrate aspects of each of these approaches, rather than working in only one way. This is especially true in the context of the short-term, focused approach that most counsellors working in universities and colleges would use.
How does counselling help?
A counsellor will aim to help you get a clear overview of the problem, as the basis for finding ways forward. For some people, just the opportunity to talk to someone caring and supportive is enough to help them re-engage with their own coping resources. For others, a more detailed focus on what has gone wrong and how to put it right might be indicated.
Always be honest with your counsellor about whether the counselling sessions feel helpful or not, and if you aren’t getting the kind of help you want then let the counsellor know. Counselling works as a collaborative process, so it can’t help if you aren’t clear about what you want.
Should you want to book an appointment with a counsellor, especially someone who specialises in depression counselling, you can contact Cheryl King Associates who will be happy to help.