Many people approach our service and tell us “I don’t even know where to start…” when describing what’s happening for them. At times it can be incredibly difficult to get your head around what’s going on, let alone put it into words. Sometimes there might be nothing obviously wrong in your life, except for an unsettling feeling that something just isn’t right. At other times, issues in different areas of life combine and start to snowball. This can lead to feelings of immense pressure, stress, and confusion about what to do next.
We all want to live a happy and rewarding life, with plenty of time to enjoy the good things. General counselling can help you to:
- Develop effective coping skills for life’s challenges
- Identify, prioritise and achieve your personal goals
- Create lasting change in your life and relationships
Whatever you’re bringing to counselling, our dedicated team of counsellors and psychologists are here to give you competent, compassionate and effective support. We provide general counselling to children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. Many of our specialists are also skilled group therapists who work with couples, families, and workplace clients. We’ll help you to resolve your concerns, and support you to move forward with a sense of confidence and purpose.
How do I know if I need counselling?
Have you been feeling sad lately, but you’re not depressed? Or do you find yourself on edge, but it’s not full-blown anxiety? Perhaps you can’t quite pinpoint exactly what’s happening, but you simply don’t feel like your usual self. Life can be difficult – especially when we’re faced with challenges that feel distressing, overwhelming, or beyond our control. Talking to friends or family may help, but often we’re still left feeling confused, and in need of some direction and support.
That’s where counselling comes in – you don’t have to figure things out alone. There’s a common misconception that counselling is only for people experiencing extreme circumstances and moods. The truth is, counselling can address a whole range of issues, and no concern is too small. Your feelings, your wellbeing and your personal goals are important. General counselling provides a safe, nonjudgmental space to discuss all of your concerns, and explore options and opportunities for change.
Common concerns covered by general counselling
Counselling is a process of supporting you to identify and work through any issues you may have – including difficult life experiences or past problems that are impacting your present feelings or behaviours. Below are some common reasons people seek general counselling:
- Personal relationship concerns (partner, family, friends)
- Moving beyond a relationship breakup
- Career changes and work-related stress
- Feeling a lack of direction or purpose
- Confidence and self-esteem issues
- Harassment and bullying
- Burnout and fatigue
- Financial stress
Quite often, it’s not just one area of life that feels out of balance, but a combination of issues that contribute to an overall sense of confusion or distress. You may be struggling with thoughts and feelings about yourself, your life direction, or relationships with others. Counselling is a practical, helpful way to prioritise your concerns and work through them at your own pace.
Often in general counselling, we incorporate elements of the following specialist services as well, depending on your personal needs and circumstances: anger management, anxiety and depression, child, adolescent, drug and alcohol, family, grief, marriage and relationships, parenting, sexual abuse, sexuality.
For some people, simply talking through issues can be beneficial, whilst others may need specific guidance or strategies to support them through a difficult time. Together we’ll identify the most constructive and useful way to make sense of your experience, and bring about positive changes in your life.
I’m new to this – what do I need to know?
Many of our clients tell us that just picking up the phone is a major decision! You may feel a bit nervous about counselling, but we are fully committed to making your experience as easy and stress-free as possible. When you call James Ising, you’ll speak with a member of our dedicated intake team. Your intake consultant will spend some time with you to:
- Discuss your counselling needs
- Answer any questions you may have
- Recommend suitable counselling options for you
We’ll help you find a counsellor or psychologist who’s in your local area, within your budget, and experienced in working with the issues you’re seeking support for.
Every member of our intake team has specialist training and an in-depth knowledge of every aspect of the counselling process – we welcome any questions or concerns you may have.