What is counselling and psychotherapy?

Counselling and psychotherapy provide an opportunity to talk with a trained professional, in privacy and confidence, about any issues that are causing you distress. This might be related to a specific problem or general feelings of dissatisfaction with your life.

Whilst the past cannot be changed, counselling can help you gain new perspectives on your issues so that you can move forward in a more positive way.

Counselling and psychotherapy is not about telling you what you should do but about helping you to explore possible solutions and make the right choices for you so that you can take control back over your life.

What is the difference between counselling and psychotherapy?

The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) states that "Counselling and psychotherapy are umbrella terms that cover a range of talking therapies. They are delivered by trained practitioners who work with people over a short or long term to help them bring about effective change or enhance their wellbeing." BACP (April 2009) Therapy Today, Vol 20, Issue 3, p50.

Who will benefit from counselling and psychotherapy?

1. •manage depression;
   

2. •overcome feelings of anxiety and panic;
   

3. •deal with bereavement, grief, loss and trauma;
   

4. •manage stress and conflict at home and work;
   

5. •increase self-esteem and confidence;
   

6. •enhance personal relationships;
   

7. •deal with problems related to alcohol and drug use;
   

8. •handle obsessions and compulsions;
   

9. •manage anger.
   

If any of the above sound familiar, counselling may be of help. If you would like to arrange an appointment, please contact Carolyn Gillan for counselling in Plymouth.

Getting the most out of counselling and psychotherapy

Counselling and psychotherapy are most effective when counsellor and client work collaboratively together. To get the most out of the process:

1. •be prepared to share your thoughts and feelings openly;
   

2. •raise any questions, doubts or concerns you might have during counselling or therapy;
   

3. •complete any homework tasks as best as you can.
   

Are there any risks in counselling and psychotherapy?

During counselling a wide range of thoughts, feelings and reactions may be triggered. These can be either positive or negative, and will vary in type and intensity according to individual differences and circumstances. You may notice some changes in your thinking, your emotions or in your physical well-being. This is usually a normal stage of the therapeutic process, and should be discussed during counselling.

How long does counselling and psychotherapy take?

Each session lasts one hour. The number of sessions required varies from person to person. Work on specific problems may take only a few weekly sessions, whereas deep-rooted problems may take several months.

Confidentiality

With limited exceptions, everything you discuss in counselling and psychotherapy is confidential and will not be disclosed without your prior consent.

In the following specific circumstances, however, there may be a requirement to disclose information without your consent:

1. •where there is a risk of harm to yourself or others;
   

2. •under the Prevention of Terrorism Act;
   

3. •under subpoena or summons as a witness in a law court.
   

In the event of any of these circumstances, every effort will be made to discuss any disclosure of information prior to doing so.

Read poetry about a personal journey of recovery from depression