Counselling is designed to help people to understand their feelings and behaviour. Everyone’s circumstances are different, which is why there are numerous types of counselling to assist with the requirements of each individual on a case-by-case basis.
Why might I require a counsellor?
Counselling is a form of talking therapy, which means that you’ll be speaking to a professional about your problems and can work out ways in which you can deal with them.
The process can help you to cope with several issues, including mental health conditions, an upsetting health diagnosis, a difficult life event or other sources of stress.
If you have a behavioural disorder, you may struggle to maintain relationships or hold down a job. Behavioural disorder counselling helps patients to acknowledge their behaviour and set realistic goals that can help to adopt newer, healthier approaches.
Therapists can also help if you experience marriage or family issues. This form of counselling may explore individual behaviours and relationships within families as well as analyse the dynamics of the group or partnership as a whole.
Common types of counselling
There are three main types of counselling which are widely practiced throughout the industry. These are briefly explained below:
- Psychodynamic therapy: This talking therapy is ideal for people who are aiming to be more self-aware to identify their deeper issues. It helps them to understand why they experience things in certain ways and how they can manage these situations effectively. It looks at how our past experiences have shaped us as individuals.
- Cognitive behavioural therapy: This is most commonly used to treat symptoms of depression and anxiety, helping to contextualise and reconsider irrational thoughts and behaviour. It is a challenging process as it involves consciously changing thoughts and patterns of habit, essentially unlearning a certain type of behaviour.
- Humanistic therapy: This therapy model helps people to deal with difficulties that have occurred both in the past and present. This practice believes that people can shape their own future and is best suited to those who prefer to talk through their experiences themselves.
How to find a counsellor
There are a few ways to find a reputable counsellor, and it’s important to find someone with whom you feel comfortable with.
NHS therapists are free of charge and you can begin discussing with your GP about receiving counselling. They should refer you to a service that’s best suited to your needs.
You might consider searching for a private therapist. If so, look on reliable websites for therapists whose practices are fully qualified in the field you need, registered, and have appropriate counsellors insurance in place.
You may find that your college, university or workplace offers free counselling services or employee programmes which you can access. Speak to student services or your HR department to find out what’s available.
