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Q What’s the difference between Counselling and Psychotherapy?
A
There’s a lot of overlap. Both can be enriching and help you to deal with
your problems and
issues in a more effective way. Counselling often focuses on a specific
problem or crisis,
where as psychotherapy tends to deal with more deep-seated issues perhaps
at an
unconscious level and arising from your past.
There are many ways and models in using and applying psychotherapy and
you will read about some of
the methods that I work with here at the Elevated Therapy International
web site when engaging with the
unconscious mind. I do not espouse one specific type of therapy. In my
experience some therapeutic
approaches are more suitable than others for a client.
I believe that the essence of therapy is to provide a safe, supportive
and non-judgemental environment
in which the client is able to explore his or her past experiences, current
difficulties and future possibilities.
Indeed, many people who seek psychotherapy are not in a crisis at all,
but are interested in finding out
about themselves, improving relationships and living a more rewarding life.
Unlike most counsellors, psychotherapists will have been through therapy
themselves as part of
their training and development as I have.
Q What is Psychiatry?
A
Psychiatry is the medical speciality dealing with mental disorders. Psychiatrists
often
have a different perspective from psychotherapists, seeing things in terms
of sickness
vs health, and using physical treatments such as psychotropic drugs.
Q What is Psychology?
A
In its very broadest sense, it is the study of behaviour - both human and
animal.
It encompasses all aspects of the functioning of the brain, sensory organs
and central
nervous system, from basic regulation of the organism, to the complexities
of
conscious thought, cognition and personality in primates and humans.
Q What is Group therapy?
A
Instead of meeting the therapist one-to-one, a group of six to twelve people
meet with
the therapist or two therapists working together, for a longer session
(typically two
hours a week). Group members benefit from mutual support and learn about
themselves through the experiences of others and each other.
Q Is therapy available on the NHS? (The British National Health Service)
A
Counselling and psychotherapy are available within the National Health
Service.
Some GP’s have a counsellor or psychotherapist attached to the practice.
Unfortunately the resources available are in great demand and it may be
difficult to get
therapy without going through a lengthy process. Because of budget constraints,
the
number of sessions allocated to you may be limited.
Q Are there any risks?
A
Many people have concerns about what might happen if they start exploring
their
own psychological make-up. Some worry that a counsellor or psychotherapist
might
cause emotional harm or read their thoughts. Others fear that they would
become
controlled by the therapist and be made to do things they didn’t want to
do.
It’s natural to be a little apprehensive about something new. That’s why
it is important to
meet, discuss any concerns, and ask questions before making a final decision.
Ask the
therapist what training they have had, what supervision they receive, and
what is their
code of ethics. I am always open to questions like this myself.
The fact is, we (counsellors and psychotherapists) don’t do anything to
anyone. We are
also trained and experienced in supporting people who are feeling apprehensive,
lost,
scared, sad or vulnerable.
The other way to look at it is to ask what risks are there in not seeking
professional
help? We are increasingly aware of the links between psychological and
physical
health. Keeping a lid on things is not usually the best way to handle emotional
issues. In
the long run, you may suffer more profound effects such as physical aches
and pains,
lack of energy, dis-ease, stress, depressed libido or even ‘mental breakdown’
or worse!
Q How should I choose a counsellor or therapist?
A
For many people considering psychotherapy or counselling, there is often
little or no framework
from which to make the choice of therapist or type of therapy. If you know
someone who can recommend
a psychotherapist, this is probably the best starting point. In the end,
however, only you can determine
whether you are likely to be comfortable with someone, and whether you
will be able to be open with them.
Book an initial interview, by the end of which you should know whether
you would be happy to
come back, and so begin to establish a trusting relationship with them.
I am happy to see someone for an initial session to begin with as
a consultancy and exploratory session for an hour at
£50.
Q How much will it cost?
A
Within the NHS, counselling and psychotherapy are free. You may also have
access
to free therapy through your school, college or employer. I charge £50
for an hour session.
The number of Counselling and/or Psychotherapy sessions you have is up
to you -
varying from perhaps four or five altogether to once a week for a year
or more,
depending on what you want to achieve. I also use other ways of working
as you might have
seen at `Therapy Central` and throughout this web site. 
Q What about confidentiality?
A
You need to be able to trust your therapist with what are often very private
thoughts
and feelings. This should be one of the subjects covered when you meet
for the first
time, so that you are clear about your therapist’s policy and procedures
regarding
confidentiality. I always discuss this with perspective clients.
I personally maintain strict confidentiality within our relationship consistent
with your good care
and English Law. I ensure client notes and records are kept secure and
confidential.
I am also sensitive to issues of race, gender and sexual orientation.
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