Thinking of seeing a counsellor? Here’s what you might expect…

Thinking of seeing a counsellor, but not sure what to expect? Whether it’s your first time going to therapy or you’re trying to find a therapist who is the right fit for you - it’s only natural to feel unsure or even be curious as to what counselling might look like or how it can help.

When it comes to the word ‘counselling’ or ‘therapy’ there’s a lot of misconceptions. It’s not like how it is in the movies (surprise surprise) …there’s no reclining couch, ‘breakthroughs’ don’t happen in every session, the therapist can’t read your mind or make sudden revelations. Whilst we may realise that therapy isn’t like how it’s portrayed in the movies, it’s common to hope for a quick fix in therapy but real healing often takes time and patience. Therapy is a process and progress happens gradually.

So what can you expect from therapy and how can it help?

You’ve made the initial enquiry, booked in a session, filled in the paperwork and you’re meeting with your therapist. This can feel relieving, and at the same time quite daunting. After all, you’re going to discuss your life with a stranger. (As a therapist who has been through similar experiences, I get it.) It can feel unnerving but you’re here because you realise that your wellbeing matters. And your therapist is there to create a safe space and work with you along your journey. Your initial session is usually focused on getting to know you, what brought you to therapy and understanding how you would like your life to be different.

Healing and growth begins when we feel safe, heard, and supported in relationship. But how is therapy different to talking with a friend, you may ask? Unlike a friendship, registered counsellors and psychologists are professionally trained to listen without judgement, identify patterns in thoughts, emotions, and actions and work therapeutically using evidence-based approaches to help you understand and work through challenges. Therapy is about holding a safe space just for you - no one else. Your therapist is bound by a code of ethics to practice with confidentiality and boundaries and therefore do not personally become involved in your life.

Counselling lets you be your true self - which is essential for meaningful change. Whether you’re navigating challenges or seeking clarity, therapy with your counsellor can help you to uncover root causes, gain insight, and build skills to make a shift in patterns that no longer serve you. It’s not always a quick fix, but deeper self-understanding opens the door to greater self-acceptance, emotional resilience, and long term personal growth.

If you’re ready to take that first step, reach out - I’d be honoured to walk alongside you.