I’m Thinking About Seeing a Counsellor
© Joanne Edwards @ Purposeful Wellbeing
“I’m feeling so stuck and overwhelmed. I don’t want to burden my friends or family with this struggle I’m having, or how I really feel.”
If you’ve ever had thoughts similar to these, you’re not alone.
We can become so good at masking that we’re “okay” can’t we? Deep down we know that we’re actually not. It’s normal to hope that the problem we’re facing or experiencing will go away given enough time, and for certain problems that can often be the case. But what if we notice that our daily functioning and enjoyment of life is being impacted? Or our relationships are suffering? Or the inner wound we carry does not seem to be healing?
If we are a person of faith we can have the added burden of wondering where God is in our struggle or pain, or thinking it will show a “lack of faith” to seek support from a professional. (that’s a whole topic on its own which I will save for another day!)
For now, let’s just say that we have recognised our struggle and are '“thinking of seeing someone”. The question then becomes, who?
First up, it’s important to say that if the problem you’re experiencing involves potential complex mental health concerns, it is definitely best to visit your GP and discuss what is going on for you.
But if it is non-clinical support that you’re after, then I encourage you to find a registered counsellor. And a quick side note: it doesn’t need to be something “big” in order to see a counsellor! It’s quite okay to desire a safe, confidential space where you can be truly seen, heard and supported without the bias or well-intentioned but sometimes misguided advice of family or friends.
A counsellor “comes alongside” and offers a unique, non-clinical, and therapeutic relationship which is the primary vehicle for change or healing to occur. Counsellors support people with their personal growth, emotional and mental wellbeing, or a wide range of life challenges. Counsellors are trained in a range of therapeutic techniques (in the same way that psychologists are), but do not seek to diagnose you.
Some counsellors specialise in a specific area. For example there are child counsellors, family counsellors, domestic violence counsellors, addiction counsellors, and so on and so on! I suggest reading a counsellor’s website thoroughly, and asking questions to ensure their particular approach is a good match for what you feel that you need.
It’s also important to check that the counsellor you’re considering seeing is registered with either the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) or the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA). Counsellors who belong to these professional bodies must follow strict ethical guidelines, maintain professional standards, and engage in ongoing professional development and supervision. You can easily check a counsellor’s registration on the Australian Register of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (ARCAP) by searching for their name.
Once you’ve turned up for your first appointment what matters most is the connection you feel with the person sitting across from you.
A good counsellor should make you feel:
Safe and free from judgement
Heard, understood, and taken seriously
Comfortable with their personal style and approach
Respected at all times, even if they need to gently challenge you
A reputable counsellor will also let you know if what you bring is beyond their current scope of practice or expertise.
The most important thing to remember is this:
Reaching out for professional support is a positive and courageous step.
Your wellbeing matters, and I hope this has been helpful to you.
If you have any questions or comments feel free to drop me a line on my contact page. :)