Counselling services or Psychotherapy?
The difference between counselling and psychotherapy can be explained as the difference between working on and managing current difficulties (counselling) as opposed to working back to the origins of a difficulty, and healing the experiences that led to it (psychotherapy).
Abuse, where something bad, or many bad things happened (physically, sexually or emotionally) very often has a devastating effect on someone's sense of safety and wellbeing, and leads to difficulty with managing the very strong emotions generated by the experiences. Experiences of abuse are traumatising, and are encoded in the mind and the body of the person as a threat to life, evoking survival behaviours, thoughts and emotions.
Neglect, where nothing particularly bad happened but emotional connection, validation and nurturing were impaired or even absent, is often at the root of poor self-esteem or damaged confidence. We can feel 'not good enough', which can make every day challenging and very limiting. Frequently, high levels of anxiety are the result, and counselling or psychotherapy can help you begin to rebuild a steadier sense of self.
We can love and perhaps understand our carers, even though they have not been able to provide what we needed to flourish, which can make the emotional landscape even more confusing and painful.
Trauma can also occur at any time of life, through accident, interpersonal violence, bullying at work or at school , and in many other ways., either as a single event or as a series of experiences.
So...
counselling services or psychotherapy?
Counselling is usually quite short-term, and will be the appropriate choice for many issues.
Psychotherapy is often helpful when previous experiences of counselling have not hit the spot, and difficulties recur.
Sometimes moving between both approaches is what is most helpful to the client.
Common Questions
What is the first step to starting therapy?
Our first step is a free 20 minute phone consultation to discuss your goals, and how we can work together to support your emotional wellbeing
How long are the therapy sessions?
Our sessions will usually last 60 minutes, providing space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings in a safe, non-judgemental environment.
What can I expect during my first session?
During your first session, we will start to build trust and mutual respect. We will talk about your history, your current challenges, and your expectations for therapy.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions required will vary greatly, depending on your individual needs. We will work collaboratively to review your progress, and you will decide when you wish to end therapy.
You might want just a short intervention for a specific problem, or a more long-term healing journey.
Is therapy confidential?
Yes, the confidentiality of your therapy is a funtamental principle. I maintain strict privacy to ensure your safety and the integrity of the therapeutic process.
As a qualified psychotherapist I am required to have regular professional supervision, and aspects of your therapy may be discussed anonymously and confidentially with appropriately qualified supervisors. I work with a qualified psychotherapy supervisor, and with a consultant psychiatrist who is also an EMDR consultant.