The counsellor and clientThe relationship between the counsellor and client is very important for the therapeutic process. It is crucial that the client feels that they can trust their counsellor – this will enable them to discuss any issues more easily.

The counsellor can offer a safe, regular space to support the client through any difficult emotions that may come up. If the client knows that personal information discussed is held in confidence they will feel safe and comfortable with the counsellor and self-disclosure is much more likely to happen.

The counsellor’s role is to gently encourage the client to explore aspects of their life and feelings, by talking openly and freely. Talking in this way is rarely possible with family, friends or support workers who may be emotionally involved and have opinions and biases that could be unhelpful to the therapeutic benefits of counselling. Without confidentiality the client/counsellor relationship has no firm foundation.

The therapist works with a person-centered approach – they will support the client to realise their own ability for self healing and personal growth. The counsellor will not give advice, criticise or judge. They will treat the client with acceptance, respect, empathy and honesty. They are a member of the BACP (British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy) and adhere to its ethical framework for good practice in counselling.

Talking Therapy for the SupportedCOUNSELLING

WHAT IS COUNSELLING

Counselling is a talking therapy that enables a person to talk about any issues that are troubling them. A counselling session offers a safe and confidential place in which a client can explore difficult feelings that may be confusing, stressful or painful.

It can be a great relief to share your worries and fears with someone. The act of focusing on uncomfortable emotions or experiences in a non-judgmental space can enable the client to see things more clearly and encourages positive change.

The aim of counselling is to empower the client to give them the confidence to make their own choices and decisions.

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ConfidentialityCounselling requires a relationship of trust. Confidentiality is paramount to successful counselling and the wellbeing and safety of the client is first and foremost.

Counsellors have a policy on confidentiality so they may be required by law to disclose information if they believe that there is a risk to life. The policy will be explained at the beginning of the client’s first session and the counsellor will support the client to understand the confidentiality agreement.

The counsellor is monitored by a external supervisor. This is to ensure safe practice and is a requirement of the BACP regulations. They attend regular supervision meetings in which the client may be mentioned. If they are, no names will be given and only information relevant to their specific concern will be discussed.

If the client discloses abuse or the counsellor believes the client or others are at risk they will report their concerns. The counsellor will endeavour to obtain the client’s permission so they can have their input and that their wishes are upheld. If permission is not possible the counsellor will continue with the safeguarding procedure.

If you have any questions regarding confidentiality please do not hesitate to contact us.

What to expectDuring a counselling session the counsellor may encourage the client to examine parts of their life that they may have found difficult or impossible to face before. The therapist will offer a safe, welcoming, confidential space for them to talk.

Therapy is a very personal process – talking about painful feelings and making difficult decisions. The client may go through a period of feeling very low before they start to feel better. It is important that they continue with the therapy so that it can enable them to feel better. They may feel awkward or nervous but it will get easier. Sometimes they may feel upset, angry or sad – the therapist will support them through this. It may take a few sessions before counselling starts to make a difference.

• The client can come to talk to the therapist at a set time.

• Sessions are usually 50 minutes but times can be arranged to suit the needs and requirements of the client.

• Some people see their therapist once a week but a routine can be agreed that is right for the client.

• The therapist can offer a range of therapeutic approaches to suit the client.

• This can include: face-to-face talking therapy, creative therapy using art materials and eco therapy, which involves taking advantage of the wonderful outdoor environment by walking or spending time sitting outside. The sessions can be tailored to suit the individual needs and requests of the client.

Counselling can help with:• Abuse • Family issues• Anger • Low self-confidence• Anxiety • Low self-esteem• Bereavement • Relationship issues• Bullying • Self harm• Depression • Stress• Fear • Suicidal thoughts

Counselling can help the client feel less stressed and less anxious and therefore more confident and in control of their life – so they can have better relationships with family and friends. When clients are referred to therapy it is often for a specific reason – for example, challenging behaviour. It may be the intention of the referrer to reduce this behaviour. This may not be the aim of the client or the counsellor!

The aim of the counsellor is to encourage the client to express themselves and share their worries. In doing so it is hoped that any internal conflicts and distress the client is experiencing will be reduced – in turn lowering any anxiety or stress that can lead to challenging behaviour.

Useful linkswww.itsgoodtotalk.org.ukwww.bacp.co.ukwww.facebook.com/communitylifedesignwww.newleaf.uk.com

We have produced, and made available, an accompanying leaflet to help explain counselling to the supported.

Community Interest Company Registered No. 8652565

To organise a meeting with a counsellor, the supported can contact us directly or their carers can call on their behalf.

Carers can attend the first meeting if this makes the client feel more comfortable.

You will receive a warm and friendly welcome.

07590 684888email: communitylifedesign@gmail.com

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