Although interests in self-development and self-empowerment are steadily growing there are still, unfortunately, many people who have pre-conceived ideas about what Counselling is all about, and what it can and cannot do. These myths and misconceptions are generally enough to stop someone making progress through counselling, because these ideas will influence the potential client in a negative manner. Exploring the subject of Counselling a little further is all that is required to dispel these myths.
Myth:
Only mad people need counselling
Reality:
The vast majority of people, undergoing some form of counselling, do so simply because they are experiencing difficulties and problems with situations that occur in everyday life. Stress caused by these issues can be overwhelming, and may make a person feel that they are unable to cope with the pressures of life.
This type of client seeks help from a counsellor so that they can gradually take back control of their life. Counselling can provide empowerment and can also enable a client to view their problems from a clearer perspective. Those suffering from depression and anxiety will also benefit from counselling.
Myth:
How can a stranger help?
Reality:
Most people find it easier to open up to a complete stranger, than to share their most intimate concerns, worries and problems with loved ones. Friends, family members and colleagues generally know us well enough to be able to judge and control us. A counsellor has no vested interest in your plans or life, and can therefore actively listen to whatever issues you feel you want to voice. They will listen, challenge your thinking and help you to identify possible solutions, in a safe, totally confidential environment.
Myth:
Counsellors just sit there and say nothing
Reality:
Counsellors are proactive therapists who will work with you to identify core issues and to clarify perspective. They will mentally challenge a client and encourage the individual to explore their limiting beliefs and ideas.
Myth:
Counselling takes forever
Reality:
Counselling takes as long as it needs to. You cannot put a time limit on the amount of care, thinking space and attention that a client may require. The more complex and severe the issues are, that a client is dealing with, the longer the counselling process may take. Short-term counselling, that lasts a period of weeks or months, may be sufficient for clients who are more goal-focused. Longer-term counselling however, will concentrate on the development of the client’s mental well-being and personality.
Myth:
Everyone will know you are seeing a Counsellor
Reality:
Counselling is a confidential experience shared only by the client and the counsellor. Whilst your GP will also know you are attending counselling sessions they will not know what you discuss in the counselling environment. The only people who will know you are seeing a counsellor are those people you decide to tell yourself.
Myth:
Counselling will change the person you are
Reality:
Counselling will allow you to explore core issues from your past, as you identify ways of moving forward with your life. Change is a constant thing, and a client with therefore experience a change in their thinking, from session to session. This is all positive progress that will help the client to free themselves from all the negativity they may be mentally carrying around with them.
Carole Re: Voluntary Counselling Opportunities
I would like to offer some of my time as a therapist. I am a qualified psychologist and psychotherapist with 15 years…
21 April 2024
Carole Re: Voluntary Counselling Opportunities
I am a qualified psychologist and psychotherapist and would like to offer some time to H&F. I’d be grateful if you would…
21 April 2024
Dory Re: Voluntary Counselling Opportunities
I have a diploma in counselling, and I can provide the documentation to support my qualifications. I have been…
17 April 2024
GPB Re: Paid Counselling Opportunities
Hello, I have a Master of Arts Degree in Guidance and Counselling and a certificate course in Psychology in a good University in…
8 April 2024
GPB Re: Voluntary Counselling Opportunities
Hello, I have a Master of Arts Degree in Guidance and Counselling and a certificate course in Psychology in a good…
8 April 2024
Francis Re: Voluntary Counselling Opportunities
I’m a level 4 Clinical, solution focussed Hypnotherapist. I’ve been practicing for 4 years and I’m looking to volunteer…
31 March 2024
Syed Re: Paid Counselling Opportunities
I have been working with Dementia, Acute patients such as Suicidal and young adults with learning and behavioural issues for…
Suey Re: Voluntary Counselling Opportunities
I have completed pychotherapy and Advanced psychotherapy leval 3 home course and now I'm studying leval 4 ptsd home course.
Re: Voluntary Counselling Opportunities
I would like to offer some of my time as a therapist. I am a qualified psychologist and psychotherapist with 15 years…
Re: Voluntary Counselling Opportunities
I am a qualified psychologist and psychotherapist and would like to offer some time to H&F. I’d be grateful if you would…
Re: Voluntary Counselling Opportunities
I have a diploma in counselling, and I can provide the documentation to support my qualifications. I have been…
Re: Paid Counselling Opportunities
Hello, I have a Master of Arts Degree in Guidance and Counselling and a certificate course in Psychology in a good University in…
Re: Voluntary Counselling Opportunities
Hello, I have a Master of Arts Degree in Guidance and Counselling and a certificate course in Psychology in a good…
Re: Voluntary Counselling Opportunities
I’m a level 4 Clinical, solution focussed Hypnotherapist. I’ve been practicing for 4 years and I’m looking to volunteer…
Re: Paid Counselling Opportunities
I have been working with Dementia, Acute patients such as Suicidal and young adults with learning and behavioural issues for…
Re: Voluntary Counselling Opportunities
I am a second year student in person centered diploma at University of Aberdeen and would like to volunteer.
Re: Voluntary Counselling Opportunities
I have completed pychotherapy and Advanced psychotherapy leval 3 home course and now I'm studying leval 4 ptsd home course.
Re: Questionnaire: Are You Counsellor Material?
hello, I had son. who was diagnosed with mental conditions since age 13. I was a caretaker for him over his…