What is counselling?

You may have landed on this page because you are feeling down, overwhelmed or are unsure where else to turn to. Whatever reason you are here, welcome! I am going to begin your journey by helping you to understand more about counselling and what it can do for you.

Taking a step into counselling can sometimes feel like a big step into the unknown but it is a place where you can feel comfortable, relaxed and safe to share any feelings, thoughts or emotions that are swimming around in your head.

The counsellor creates an environment where you can make discoveries and develop within yourself at your own pace. The counsellor will use their experience and skills to facilitate your process and be there for you in that space for support. The counsellor may introduce activities along the way that help you on that journey of self-discovery.

Will the counsellor give me advice?

Many people feel that if they go to counselling, the counsellor will give them advice and tell them exactly what to do to improve their life. This is a misconception of counselling. What the counsellor will do is listen, process the information and reflect it back to you in such a way to help you understand what you are dealing with. The counsellor may suggest techniques or strategies to complete at home such as, deep breathing but you are the leader in your development and will work in partnership with the counsellor to create your desired outcome.

A word from Alison...

‘For 8 years I was a Primary school teacher and loved helping children to develop in different ways. I enjoyed the aspect of reward when children overcame something or learned something new and also liked to build relationships with them. I always felt there was something missing for me and that I wanted to help others in a different way. This is when I became particularly interested in counselling. I signed up for a counselling course and left my role as a teacher and haven’t looked back!’ Alison Ralph

What should I expect from a counselling session?

A session with myself is client led which means that I will allow you to work at your own pace. This means that I will not question you or give you advice. I will act as a support and guide as you share information, feelings and emotions. Sessions are one hour long and can be a path to self-discovery, overcoming barriers, finding new ways of thinking and feeling or simply reflecting on the positives in your life. Many people feel that a counselling session helps them to feel that a weight has been lifted from their shoulders or that they can be in a non-judgemental environment where they can express emotion and talk freely.