What to expect from Counselling Sessions.
In a counselling session, the client and counsellor work collaboratively to shape the work within the sessions.
The first session will include information regarding confidentiality, session structure and putting together a counselling agreement. It will also involve an initial exploration of the problems the client is facing with an opportunity to identify specific goals.
The counsellor will explain the CBT model to the client and use and share resources including assessment forms, thought records, diaries and other tools to support the work. The counsellor will also explain to the client, the logic behind using these, as the work progresses.
It will be important for the client to test out and experiment with new ways of thinking, feeling and behaviours. Most clients know that counselling, no matter what type, is not a magic wand. Real change and progress will come from the motivation to change and a willingness to step into the work and experiments. The work the client does when they are living their day to day life are essential to progress.
The number of counselling sessions will be discussed and negotiated. Regular reviews will take place with opportunities for feedback throughout the work.
Online Counselling
Online counselling, whilst a relatively new development in the counselling profession, may be an option for some clients who either live too far away to travel or find it difficult to attend face to face sessions due to work and family commitments.
You can receive help from the privacy of your own home and, if it is email support, you are often able to start sessions promptly.
Research has shown that online counselling has been successful with many problems which clients may face. It can be as effective as visiting a counsellor’s office and yet is often less costly and may be available at different times of the day.
Are there times when online counselling is not the appropriate course of action?
Yes, when someone is struggling to cope to the extent that they are having suicidal thoughts. When things have become this unmanageable it is often better to work face to face to get the best form of support. Should the counsellor feel that after an initial assessment, online counselling is not the best course of action, they will endeavour to assist in finding local face to face counselling.
The counsellor does not provide online counselling to individuals who are under 18 years old.
What to expect from online counselling.
If necessary, the counsellor will offer guidance during the first session on how to begin. The counsellor will use a Skype or MSN facility for online counselling. Please remember to be mindful of any counselling information which may be held on your own computer. If necessary, you should secure your email and computer to ensure others do not have access to your personal information and details regarding your counselling.
She will also carry out an initial assessment to clarify the reason for seeking support and how the issues are affecting the client’s life. She will also discuss and help to establish goals for the work together.
Prior to any counselling sessions, the counsellor will confirm the fee and will require payment prior to the start of the session. Payment can be made through Paypal services on the website. You do not require a Paypal account as the service will also accept payment by credit card.
Should you have any further questions or would wish to discuss this in more detail please get in touch.
