Is counselling effective?

---

Counselling is a process that many people turn to when they're going through a difficult time or want to make changes in their lives. You might be wondering, "Is it actually effective?"

The simple answer is yes, counselling can be very effective for a wide range of issues. Research consistently shows that most people who engage in counselling experience positive changes. These changes might include:

• A reduction in symptoms like anxiety or depression.
• Improved relationships.
• Greater self-awareness and understanding.
• Development of healthier coping skills.
• Increased confidence and self-esteem.
• A greater sense of overall well-being.

Counselling provides a safe and supportive space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings, understand your patterns of behaviour, and work towards your goals. A counsellor is trained to listen without judgement, offer empathy, and guide you through the process of change.

Different types of counselling can be effective for different issues. For example, some therapies focus on changing negative thought patterns, while others focus on exploring past experiences or improving relationship dynamics. Ultimately, the effectiveness of counselling can depend on several factors, including your willingness to engage in the process, the relationship you have with your counsellor, and the specific approach used.

I use an integrative approach, known as Schema therapy, which brings together a mixture of counselling modalities, providing a tailored approach for each client I work with. I realised during the early stages of my training, that no one type of therapy fits everyone, and an integrative approach just made sense, becuase we are all so different.

If you're curious about the research behind counselling's effectiveness, here are some resources that provide more in-depth information:

• Psychotherapy evidence | UKCP
• https://www.bacp.co.uk/about-therapy/types-of-therapy/