What is Counselling and Psychotherapy?
A confidential relationship within which to explore issues of concern or distress, affecting an individual's life or couple's relationship. It is an oppotunity to be heard in a non-judgemental, safe and supportive environment. Unlike discussing issues with friends or family, who may become upset or too involved, counselling/psychotherapy provides time and space for you to talk through your issues with an impartial and empathic listener.
Counselling/psychotherapy can help you to explore your feelings, gain new awareness and investigate alternative choices. It is not advice giving or about instructing you on what to do but instead, counselling/psychotherapy enables you to find your own best ways forward. The aim of the process is to help you to better understand yourself and review other, perhaps more rewarding options.
The terms counselling and psychotherapy are used interchangably and even within the profession there is some discord as to whether they are different practices. It is generally accepted that counselling is shorter term work, focused on difficulties in the here and now and that psychotherapy is longer term work, at a deeper or unconscious level.
The initial appointment is an assessment session, within which we would explore the issues which have brought you to the practice, discuss your expectations and decide whether counselling/psychotherapy is an appropriate intervention. This initial appointment is free of charge.
In subsequent sessions, we then work together,reviewing and reflecting on progress. I work on either a short-term basis (up to 6 weeks) or on a longer term basis, taking into account each client's clinical requirments and personal situation.
I practise from a quiet, private clinic which, is set back from the main High Street, but conveniently located in central Fareham.
