Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know whether I need counselling or not?

That is a really important question, when we have a toothache we know we need to go to the dentist.  Going for counselling is less clear for many people.  Here are a few tips:

1. Write out why you are thinking about counselling.
2. Ring a few counsellors and ask them on the phone if and how what they do might help with the reasons you are considering counselling.  Because counselling is so personal it helps to know how the counsellor approaches their work.
3. Go and see the person who you liked best on the phone for one visit.
4. At that visit notice how you feel with them, and ask all the questions that are on your mind to help you decide if this is the right kind of  help you need at this time.  If you are not sure about this, discuss it at that meeting.
5. Decide to continue based on how you felt with that person, and if you are clear how meeting them might help with the reasons why you want counselling.

Does going for counselling mean I’m not able to cope?

Absolutely not.  It means you are dealing with the situation you find yourself in, asking for help when we need it happens all the time.  We don’t usually worry that going to the dentist means we can’t cope.  It’s much the same principle, once we know what we need help for.  Having a clear focus helps to make the counselling process much more effective, and to be sure we are in the right place.  There is no point in going to a counsellor because you are stressed with a toothache, when you need a dentist!  Don’t be confused by terms you may not have heard before, let common sense guide you, your questions, and your eventual decision.

I’m afraid I will be brain washed?

If you get any sense of that happening say it straight away.  Any good counsellor will be able to clarify what is happening.  If they cannot, make your own mind up.  You are looking for help with a particular situation, not signing up for any system of beliefs.  Question anything that does not feel comfortable with the counsellor.  Fear of something we are not familiar with is to be expected, so it is important to figure out the difference between a healthy fear of the unknown, and fear as a warning sign that something not right is happening.

If I start counselling does it mean I’ll have to go for years?

Not necessarily.  Having said that there is no average time, it is unique to each person and depends on their reasons for coming.  Either way there should be a clear focus between you and your counsellor as to why you are coming, and how you will recognise when you are finished.   It is generally advisable to have a last meeting to finish up and leave no loose ends.

Have you more questions than those answered here?

Contact me directly and I will be happy to answer your questions in confidence by phone on 086 8545407, or e-mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

I look forward to hearing from you, and will be glad to answer your questions.