What to expect from counselling
Counselling is a way to articulate your stand against problems through conversations. Unlike what people often expect counsellors do, I prefer not to provide advice unless you specifically ask for it. My role is to ask evaluative questions (usually the ones you haven’t thought about!) so that we can collaborate on overcoming whatever unwelcomed problems take too much presence in your life. I will make the space for you to speak freely about whatever you want. I am bound by the NZAC Code of Ethics to uphold your confidentiality.
Narrative counselling is unconventional, creative and sometimes playful. It can disrupt highly rehearsed ways of thinking and aims to open up new possibilities for action, meaning, and development of your preferred identity.
How many sessions will I benefit from?
In my experience, most people get the most from 3 to 6 sessions. Sometimes, 1 or 2 sessions is all it takes for busy people to find an alternative to problems. Usually, problems exist in combos. People often return to resolve other problems other that the one they came originally for. Others prefer to discover ways to enhance their lives.
What about couple’s or family counselling?
I have experience with couple’s and family counselling. However, I am not offering this service at the moment until there is available space for the work. For now, I can work with individuals to improve their relationships within their family or as a partner.
Can I involve a family member or a close friend?
Yes, supportive people are encouraged to join in if you prefer. Often the therapeutic process can be much more effective with the presence of someone who knows you well. Including supportive people does not cost extra. Standard rates apply.
I prefer not to revisit my trauma.
I observe respect for your privacy and will not go where you don’t want to go with your stories. Re-traumatisation is a consequence of dwelling on unhelpful stories without another more helpful way of experiencing them. Therefore, I am attentive to other aspects of your experience that might suggest a whole different story about you.
Why is counselling so expensive?
Counselling requires undivided attention to power dynamics, curiosity and conversational skills (asking potent, simple, and well timed questions). These skills are usually unavailable to most people. Counselling work and responsibilities takes place during the session and outside of the sessions through documentation, research and mandatory supervision etc. Supervision is required by all counsellors to gain more experienced perspective(s) for the service delivery for each of their clients. This is part of the extension of the duty of care offered to people who come to counselling.
