So, what does a counsellor do anyway?

How do you know what kind of therapist to choose when you're in crisis and just need help?

Do you need a counsellor or a psychologist and how do you know which is best for you?

Counsellors are like a highly trained therapist and coach combined. We are highly skilled at listening and interpreting what people share with us. We listen in between the spaces and we use our skills and empathy to help reframe and guide our clients without actually telling them what to do. Plus, we’ve all done a lot more study than a 6 week course!

Counsellors study how to help people change their behaviour without diagnosing a mental illness.

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who diagnoses and treats mental illnesses.

A psychologist has studied the brain anatomy extensively and also diagnoses and treats mental illnesses while also listening to people talk about their problems.

A counsellor mainly listens to people talk about their problems and helps them change their negative behaviour patterns by identifying different strategies and different ways of processing emotions and feelings.

Latest Therapy Techniques

The latest therapy techniques build on the groundbreaking work done by researchers like John Bowlby post WWII on behavioural science and attachment theory and focus on emotional therapy and attachment styles and how these influence your behaviour. You may never have thought about your attachment style but it might show up in your relationships by the way you like to be close to your partner, or maintain distance. Your partner may want reassurance all the time which feels frustrating to you because you value independence and separateness, but your partner wants more from you. The more your partner pushes, the more you feel the need to distance. Understanding your attachment style not only gives your greater self-awareness, but helps your partner to understand that there is nothing wrong with you or them, you are just wired differently.

Emotionally Focussed Therapy

Emotionally focussed therapy helps put a spotlight on the emotions that drive our behaviour. Sometimes we think we are in control of our emotions without really understanding where an outburst may come from, or what fuels a meltdown, or an emotional reaction. Working together we'll unpack these emotions and understand how to better manage them, especially in relationship with others.

So, if you are considering whether to choose a counsellor or a psychologist make sure you take advantage of the free 15 minute consultation most reputable therapists offer and get a feel for how they work.

Above all, trust your instincts. Research tells us that 80% of the benefit of working with a professional is down to the trust and connection you have and only 20% is due to the modality, or style of therapy applied. Confidentiality and trust are fundamental,  so choose who like best, while also understanding the therapist is not your friend. Sometimes they’ll challenge you and you might feel a bit uncomfortable but in a good way!

Ready to take the next step toward healing and growth? Whether you're navigating challenges or simply seeking support, counselling can make all the difference.

Reach out today to start your journey – I’m here to help, and it all begins with a conversation.

Let's Talk

Related Posts

Couples

Challenging Your Inner Voice