Let's be clear!  Counsellors and psychotherapists don't have it all figured out and the cannot read your mind!! They are simply not taught that way. Stay away from those who promise you what they cannot keep. Instead the professional ones will come alongside you, facilitate your journey, whatever that may be. They are at your level, they empathise with you and refrain from all judgement and, amidst all difficulties, help you to get up, straight and tall, as you regain confidence and healing.

 

More technically:
 

Counselling tends to focus on short term treatment plans over a period of 6 to 12 weeks. The focus tends to be in the here-and-now, thus not necessarily delving into the client’s childhood.

 

The aim of the counselling is usually to help individuals explore different ways of managing their emotional issues using solution focused and cognitive behaviour skills and techniques, which in return empowers the client to take control over how they manage their mental health.

 

Psychotherapy, on the other hand, focuses on longer term treatment plans (from 12 weeks onwards) for individuals that present with acute psychological disturbances. It aims to help client gain insight and understanding of their psychological distress. This often involves exploring and examining clients lived experiences from childhood to adulthood in a structured way, in which allows the client to feel safe and build trust in the therapist.

The overall aim of counselling/psychotherapy is to provide a safe, non-judgemental environment that gives individuals the opportunity to explore and examine their problematic situations causing emotional disturbances or challenges in your life.

The therapeutic relationship between the therapist and client is paramount in order to work through emotional issues. That in return helps improve individual recovery processes and further enhances clients’ mental well-being.