The first step
Taking the step to see a counsellor, while not easy can be important. In a busy fast paced environment counselling offers time to pause and reflect. At times we can all experience challenging circumstances which stretch us beyond the resources we have available at the time.
How does counselling work?
Counselling offers a safe place where you will be treated with respect and given time to take things at your own pace. Rather than being given advice you will be invited to give your take on the situation and to explore what is useful for you in finding a way forward. Counselling can provide that extra bit of support to enable you to;
- reach a decision about something important
- find a way forward in a conflict situation
- work with painful experiences from the past
- see a problem in a new and different way
- explore what it is that is keeping you from living life the way you would prefer.
- find a way of being with loss
- engage with change in a way that honours your values and commitments.
How many counselling sessions will I need?
I have experience with both short term (1-6 sessions) and longer term work (over 6 sessions). The number of sessions and frequency varies from person to person depending on the circumstances. Usually at the conclusion of the first appointment I will be able to let you know how many sessions I would recommend. I appreciate that what is recommended may not always be affordable and I am willing to discuss an arrangement that would best fit your situation. Sometimes meeting less frequently can work well.
What about confidentiality?
In accordance with the NZAC Code of Ethics all counsellors are required to take brief notes of each session. These notes serve as a record and can be a useful reminder for both the counsellor and the client of important themes in the counselling conversation.
All notes are stored securely and verbal or written information about you will not be disclosed without your explicit consent. However, if you inform a counsellor of a situation of serious risk to yourself or to others this information may need to disclosed to a third party, preferably with your consent. Further information can be found here on the NZAC website.
What happens if I am not satisfied?
While it is my expectation that I will provide a quality professional service, if you are not satisfied with the service you have received, you are welcome to discuss this with me. If you would prefer not to talk to me directly, or if after talking with me you remain dissatisfied, you are entitled to contact NZAC to submit a formal complaint.
