FAQs

Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about the service, if you would like to ask anything in confidence please contact me on 087 6277408.

What issues can Counselling and Psychotherapy help with?: Many clients come to counselling because they are searching for change, the aim of the counsellor is to help clients recognise how they would realistically like their lives to be and then to assist them in achieving these aims. Issues can include relationship difficulties, Loss, stress, anxiety, self esteem or any issue that is preventing you from living the life that you deserve.

What is the difference between Counselling and Psychotherapy?: Both professions are talking therapies and their aim is to provide a safe environment in which you can discuss your issues. There is no clearly defined line between counselling and psychotherapy, both practices overlap and both terms are used interchangeably. Much of the confusion between these disciplines stem from a historical and prejudicial background.

What can I expect to happen on coming to Counselling for the first time?: Coming to counselling for the first time can often leave one feeling a little uncomfortable initially. This is a natural reaction when visiting any unknown territory. You will be assured of a warm welcome and a brief assessment may be conducted which can often make it easier for you as it offers a starting point. I will explain how therapy works and highlight important areas such as confidentiality, you can then decide if you wish to proceed and book your first session.

How do I know if I need to see a Counsellor?: Sometimes despite our best efforts it can be difficult to resolve issues, a professional can offer you support and help you to understand your problem and how best to deal with it. If you have been experiencing a problem and find yourself unable to resolve it, seeing a Counsellor helps to confront the problem and move beyond it.

How long will the therapy take?: Essentially therapy is about you, in the long term you have to feel comfortable attending, if you do not "click" with your therapist then you may decide to try something different and that's ok. Generally the number of planned sessions varies with each client and will largely depend on the presenting issue.

Will the Counsellor tell me what I need to change about my present situation?: The counsellor's function in this process is not to offer a solution to the client's problem but to assist the client to see more clearly all positive, negative and contradictory aspects of the self. The purpose of counselling is change and this is facilitated by providing an opportunity to explore and clarify options. Some model or structure is required by the counsellor so that information provided by the client does not merely pile up, but you have the necessary elements within you to effect change. The realness of the counsellor will be effective in assisting that change.

Will the Counsellor be professionally trained?: Counsellors and Psychotherapists who have completed the professional qualification are accredited by (IACP) Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. The IACP code is based on four overall ethical principles, respect for the rights and dignity of the client, competence, responsibility and integrity.

How long will the session last?: Sessions in general last fifty minutes and day and evening appointments are available.

Will what I reveal be kept confidential?: Confidentiality is a natural right of the client and is at the heart of the trust which is vital to the facilitation of the development of the individual. This facilitates the release of traumatic memory and opens the potential for renewal and development. I will discuss this with you at your first visit.

If all your questions were not adequately answered here you may be interested in reading the following books:

The gift of therapy- Irvin D. Yalom
First steps in Counselling- Ursula O' Farrell
The gifts of imperfection- Brené Brown

Enniscorthy Counselling Service
Margaret Levingstone, BSc
Counselling & Psychotherapy
IACP Accredited
Email: info@enniscorthycounsellingservice.com
Call: 087 6277408

Providing Counselling & Psychotherapy services in Enniscorthy - conveniently situated for Gorey, New Ross, Wexford, Kilkenny, Carlow and surrounding areas.

Home | Issues I Work With | About Margaret | My Counselling Approach | Adolescent Counselling | FAQs | Contact

Margaret Levingstone of Enniscorthy Counselling Service is accredited by the Irish Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy