About Counselling and Psychotherapy
Why counselling and psychotherapy?
People come to counselling or therapy for a variety of reasons. Some are looking for help with a specific worry or problem, such as changing a habit, support after someone dies, or for a work issue. Some come for support with issues that are more complex, like longstanding relationship issues, depression, experiences of abuse, addiction, or difficulties stemming from childhood. Sometimes people don't know what is at the heart of the problem, they just have a sense of unhappiness or unrest.
The intention of counselling and therapy is to provide a safe, confidential space to explore your concerns or changes you would like to make with an objective, unbiased person, to gain understanding to help you.
What is the difference between counselling and psychotherapy?
The terms are often used interchangeably, alongside 'therapy'. In general, counselling involves shorter-term work, wherein the work is focussed on a specific issue. I've worked with people for six to twelve sessions, for example. Psychotherapy, or longer-term, more in-depth work is used where the concerns are more complex, and as a result, the training to become a psychotherapist is longer and also more in-depth. I've worked with some clients for many months, some for many years.
How long does it take, or how many sessions?
This depends on the individual, and is something we would discuss and agree together given what you are looking to do. If unsure, it is often helpful for clients to start with a fixed number of sessions, typically six, and to then decide whether to continue or not.
How often does it take place?
Sessions are typically weekly, for 50 minutes, at a fixed time each week. I am sometimes asked if I offer fortnightly sessions. I don't offer this, or sessions that are less frequent than weekly. I find longer breaks between sessions is usually unhelpful for the client, and that continuity, including a fixed time and place to meet, is important for the outcome of the therapy.
If you have any other questions please get in touch by email or phone: joharding99@gmail.com or 07989 447 058.
