Who can therapy help?

We all have times in our lives when we feel distressed and burdened by our problems and it can be a relief to talk to someone who is outside the situation. The counsellor listens and helps you to examine the issues that have led you to seek help. The counsellor does not provide the answers or tell you what to do but helps you make your own decisions. For some people this can be at times difficult and distressing but most find it ultimately very beneficial and many find that they have explored aspects of themselves that have previously gone unchallenged.
 
You may be unsure what the problem is but feel the need to talk to someone, or you may have a specific problem you would like to address.
 
Some examples of what people want support with are:

• Depression
  
• Relationship difficulties
  
• Bereavement and loss
  
• Stress and anxiety
  
• Panic Attacks
  
• Life changes and transitions
  
• Low self esteem
  
• Sexual, physical or emotional abuse
  
• Work relationships and career changes
  
• Health concerns
  
• Anger management
  
• Addictions
  
• Eating disorders

Counselling and Psychotherapy can benefit anyone who would like to learn more about themselves and their relationships.

"I feel more in charge of my life"
 
Counselling may not help those who:

• Are in acute crisis needing immediate, urgent help.
• Are psychotic or on heavy medication.
• Are already being seen by another counsellor or agency such as Relate, except with the agreement of the other agency.
• Have a history of repeated suicide attempts, violence to others, or uncontrollable behaviour.
• Are suffering from obsessional or phobic symptoms which may respond better to cognitive/behavioural therapy (CBT)
• Are in need of specialist help with problems of addiction to drugs and alcohol.
• Are unable to cope with having no contact with their counsellor between sessions.