What can I expect from counselling?

This article will reflect on what brings you to counselling and what you can expect from me. It can be difficult to ask for help as we value being able to cope well. We may feel anxious when we recognise that our usual ways of coping with difficulties are not working. We may also feel unsure about talking with a stranger and what impact this could have. Culturally it might not be appropriate to share difficulties outside of your family.

What issues can I bring to counselling?

You can bring anything that is concerning you regarding your mental health. You do not need to be in a crisis to do this. Sometimes we have a clearly defined concern e.g. work related stress or a diagnosis about our physical health where our care is ongoing. Sometimes we know we feel sad, angry, low, numb, shocked, stressed, unmotivated, short-tempered or withdrawn but we don’t know why. We may also feel stuck and unsure how to help ourselves.

You may have noticed a pattern in your relationships that keeps recurring – perhaps a relationship has broken down and you feel unable to find your voice. If your presenting issue is outside my clinical experience or training I will tell you.

What will I bring?

I will bring many years of clinical experience working with adults from different cultures and backgrounds. I will also bring my lived experience personally and professionally which gives me a depth of understanding of how challenging life can be sometimes. I also bring hope – not unrealistic hope – but real hope for finding resources within yourself so that you have renewed vision for your present and future.

I will bring my authentic warm self who is genuinely interested in you and your lived experience. I will bring integrity – if I am unable to help you or don’t know the answer to your question I will tell you. My intention is that clients are with the right professional. I have an excellent network and will refer you on if I feel that I am not the best fit for you. I may be able to work with some aspects of your difficulties with you but may need to refer you on for specialist care. Examples of this would be addiction or eating disorders.

How can you communicate with me?

You are welcome to contact me if you are in the UK via my website www.stellagoddard.com or by phone. I endeavour to respond the same day wherever possible (except at weekends and Bank Holidays). I have found it helpful to have a brief phone conversation with potential clients to decide how best to proceed.

What happens in our initial appointment?

I will take a formal history and get an initial understanding of what you need from counselling. This will help us find a starting point for our work together. You are welcome to ask any questions that will help you decide if you want to proceed or not. I do not share personal information as the focus needs to be on my clients.

How do we decide where to focus?

The focus is chosen by you, although I will help you if you are unsure. If you are very distressed, I will start with helping you to feel safe. I recognise that this can be difficult, particularly if you have a trauma history. It is my responsibility to get the pacing right. We may process difficulties happening in the present. We can also look at the impact of past experiences on you. In time we may look at patterns in your life and your coping strategies.

How do I work?

My way of working is compassionate whilst also being willing to offer gentle challenges when our therapeutic relationship is established. I pay close attention to what is happening in the room as you share your narrative with me. I will help you become more connected to yourself and internal world. I will also use psycho-education and metaphors. This helps to empower you and gain understanding of your way of relating to yourself, others and the world. Change is possible – it isn’t easy but it is possible.

Any questions?

Should you have any questions relating to counselling and potentially working with me, I will do my best to answer them. It is best to do this via my website www.stellagoddard.com