What happens in counselling sessions
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First SessionIn the initial stage of this session we will discuss things such as: how long sessions last, their frequency, my cancellation policy, fees and the number of sessions before doing a review of your progress. Confidentiality is discussed and any questions answered. You will also have the opportunity to talk about any specific needs you might have that make the sessions easier for you e.g. the most convenient times to schedule sessions, payment options etc. The remainder of the session is a time for you to talk about the problem you'd like to address in counselling. I will also ask about your insights into the problem, the people involved, some family history and strategies that did or didn't work in the past. It's also a time for me to get a sense of what it feels like to be in your shoes, walking through your life. Toward the end of the first session I usually have a picture of your concerns and any other issues and people involved. Sometimes a second session may be necessary, depending on the level of complexity. Generally, at this point you decide what you'd like to work on first and the goal you'd like to achieve in counselling. Note: If at any time I judge my professional training and/or experience is inadequate to your particular needs, situation or goal, I will suggest a referral to a suitably qualified professional. Should such a situation arise, it will be discussed with you first and proceed with your consent. Second and subsequent sessionsIf we both agree to proceed, during the second and subsequent sessions we discuss some approaches to help you achieve your goal. These will be based entirely on your needs and with your agreement. For example, you may just be looking for someone to act as a 'sounding board' who will respect your feelings without judgment. Other times, practical activities may be appropriate such as role play exercises, journaling, learning to meditate, developing a mindfulness practice, challenging unhelpful beliefs/thoughts, relaxation techniques or a specific and structured behavioural program. The effectiveness of strategies is discussed and monitored over an agreed number of sessions. Adjustments are made if or when necessary. Any underlying issues are identified during the course of therapy. Personal strengths, positive qualities and past successes are emphasised and drawn on to achieve your goal. The number of sessions required can depend on the complexity of the problem, your progress and whether other issues arise during the course of therapy. The end of therapyTo me the most telling sign you are succeeding in achieving your goal is when you ask to have therapy less frequently. You might have started out with weekly sessions. Then you suggest (maybe tentatively at first) fortnightly sessions. Later you decide monthly sessions are all you require. This is an indication of a developing trust in your own wisdom, your knowledge and your abilities. It's a sign of personal growth and is the overall goal of therapy. As therapy draws to a close, we focus on your strengths, the skills you've learned and changes and goals you've achieved. Any concerns you may have about the end of the counselling relationship will be thoroughly discussed during this last phase. I encourage my clients to view the end of therapy as an opportunity to strengthen and build on what has already been achieved. Having said that, the end of therapy should not feel like you're being cast out on your own, never to return. I acknowledge life can often throw a 'curve ball' and a setback may occur. Therefore, I always offer the opportunity to schedule a top up session should the need arise.
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