Counselling—a beginner's guide

What is counselling?

In essence, counselling is a two-way process that helps people adjust to a change in circumstance through dialogue. According to the British Association of Counselling, "It gives the client an opportunity to explore, discover and clarify ways of living more satisfyingly and resourcefully."

How do I access counselling services?

If you are looking for advice about counselling, your GP or healthcare professional is a good place to start. Your local Citizens Advice Bureau can also help you source services in the area.

Remember that if your GP refers you then you may have to wait some time for an appointment, but most GP counselling referrals are free on the NHS.

Are all counsellors qualified?

If you are looking for a qualified counsellor you can find one in your area by contacting the British Association of Counsellors. However, not all counselling is carried out by registered professionals.

Volunteer support networks offer a valuable and important counselling service in many different situations, providing a confidential and sympathetic ear from people who have had similar experiences.

What are the different types of counselling?

Bereavement counselling: a service aimed at helping people cope with grief after the loss of a loved one. Volunteer agencies and professional counsellors are involved in this service.

Cognitive behavioural counselling / cognitive behavioural therapy: a method used by counsellors and psychologists to identify and alter an individual's thought processes in order to address issues of behaviour and emotional development. Typically, this type of counselling is short term and focused on specific goals.

Family counselling: encourages family groups to work together in a supported environment to resolve issues.

Group counselling: involves joining a group with a facilitator where people with similar issues discuss their problems together.

One-to-one counselling: a session involving just the client and the counsellor.

Relationship and marriage counselling: a service for couples experiencing relationship difficulties to discuss their issues in confidence. This type of counselling usually involves both parties talking together, facilitated by the counsellor, who provides an appropriate environment in which to air issues and resolve conflicts.

Telephone counselling: a popular and effective tool for providing help and advice remotely. Well-known groups such as the Samaritans offer 24-hour counselling on the telephone and many other organisations and support groups also provide similar phone-counselling services.