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What is counselling like?
Counselling is private and confidential
Everything that happens in the counselling session is just between you and
me. The only other person I might speak to about our work is my counselling
supervisor (who will know only your first name or a different name, if you
prefer). The ethical framework which
I keep to requires all counsellors to have regular consultations with experienced
supervisors who ensure that the counsellors work competently and ethically. On
very rare occasions, confidentiality cannot be kept. If you are in danger
or someone close to you is at risk of serious harm, then I will discuss with
you how other people could be involved for safety reasons.
Counselling respects your own ideas and experience
Everyone responds differently to life's challenges. As your counsellor, I
won't criticise or judge you. I will try to help you to understand more about
your feelings and what you are going through so you can choose to deal with
it in a way that is right for you.
Counselling is a commitment
If you decide you want to have counselling with
me on a regular basis, we will talk about what you want to achieve and how
many sessions are likely to be needed. Some people start with about six and
sometimes that is enough; others continue with counselling for longer. However
many sessions you have, it is important that we are both always very clear
about our commitment to meet. Sessions are usually held weekly and last for
50 minutes.
Child Protection Policy
Young clients also need to know that what takes place within a session is
confidential. However, I also have a responsibility to keep them safe. I
explain to them at the outset that if I am concerned that they or someone else
may not be safe, I will remind them of this policy and explain what I need
to do. If a child protection issue comes to light, I will speak to the parents
and ask them to take the matter to the appropriate authority.
Back to Children | Adolescents
Further information
Before contacting me, you may wish to find out
more about counselling and what it may offer you. Click here for
information from the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy
(BACP) website. Click here to
read information from the Department of Health booklet. This booklet, called Choosing
Talking Therapies, explains in plain language about different types of
counselling and psychotherapy. Click here for
information about other sites which may be of interest to you.
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