There are many approaches to counseling, with at least 12 popular methods highlighted in counseling theory, each catering to specific needs and perspectives in mental health. Each approach offers unique techniques based on how they view human behavior and mental health. Numerous counseling types are also available for individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, loss, or trauma (e.g., Interpersonal Counseling, CBT, and EMDR). Our Positive Psychology Toolkit© contains top science-based exercises that can help clients begin to unpack the way they understand, interact, and present themselves to others. With Holistic Counseling, couples therapists address a client’s full range of experiences and the entire being (e.g., mind, body, https://www.csusm.edu/palliativecare/griefandbereavement.html emotional, spiritual, and psychological). In this case, the couples counselor may guide one or both clients toward the conclusion that the relationship is in such a state that counseling is not recommended.
Counsellors and counselling
Having problems is isolating, and individuals often feel that they are the only person struggling; participating in a group relieves the burden of isolation and, often, shame and frees up energy. They tend to be larger, open groups, generally focused on the maintenance of positive behavior change, and often have no fixed end-point. Not only may groups address a specific problem (anxiety, obesity, post-traumatic stress disorder, ADHD, shyness, sexual abuse), but they may also utilize a specific therapeutic approach. Others are closed; they have a fixed set of participants, and new members are accepted only when an individual concludes a course of therapy or leaves the group. Such groups can provide support and perspective—and often suggestions and models for change—to individuals struggling on their own. Or dive into your favorite theory, from CBT to positive psychology.
What happens during therapy sessions?
Your therapist will encourage you to talk about your feelings, concerns, and problems in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. Therapy could help by allowing you to share your thoughts and feelings and work on ways to transform negative thoughts into more positive ones. Talking to a therapist can help you explore these feelings. Racism in all its different forms can take its toll on your mental health and wellbeing, causing stress, anxiety and loneliness.
International Professionals
- You do not need to have a diagnosed mental health condition.
- The intervention can lead to fewer negative feelings and a sense of resolution.
- A therapist is there to listen and help you overcome emotional issues, and help you find your own solutions.
- Initial and ongoing training is essential to competent and versatile mental health practitioners, but so is practice.
- If your child is struggling to access in-person therapy and they are a teenager, consider whether they might find it easier to speak online.
- What you talk about will vary depend on what you want help with and the therapist’s approach.
If private therapy is an option for you, you’ll have more choice. You can’t always pick your therapist, but you can ask your GP or CAMHS for other options. If you’ve given this a try and your therapist really isn’t working for you, it’s okay to look for another therapist. This isn’t to replace the support you’re waiting for, but to take care of yourself while you wait. There are also lots of helplines and services you can contact.
People of any age can see a counsellor — there are counsellors who specialise in helping people throughout the life span. Counsellors are a type of mental health professional. Many therapists recognize that not everyone who needs help can afford it, so it’s always worth asking whether they can work with your budget or refer you to someone who can. Finding free or significantly discounted therapy may take time and effort, but you do have options for support.
