l

F.A.Q.

Frequently Asked
Questions

I offer an initial consultation free of charge, with no further obligation, to help you decide whether you think counselling with me will be helpful.

You can contact me on 085 1353386

You can email me on info@alanjonescounselling.com

Coming to counselling for the first time or with a new counsellor can sometimes be a bit daunting so we aim to make it as easy as possible. You can be assured of a warm welcome and Alan will spend some time telling you about his qualifications, experience, ethical guidelines and availability. You will be encouraged to ask any questions that occur to you.

You will have time to talk about why you have come to counselling and Alan will provide you with an idea of how he may work with you.

There is no 'should' when it comes to length of counselling. The time you come for depends on you and the issues you are coming with.

Each person is unique and the number of sessions needed is very much dependant on the individual, why they have come and what they want to achieve. Some issues can be resolved after a few meetings, others require longer term counselling

Sometimes the impact of events from the past or present can have a substantial effect on your well being.

You may be anxious, sad, confused or angry and this can develop into prolonged feelings of overwhelming despair, hopelessness and depression.

Counselling can help with many issues including addiction, panic attacks, childhood abuse (physical, emotional, sexual), bereavement, relationship issues, sexuality issues, eating disorders and family conflicts.

People who come to counselling are not always sure what to expect. The following information will help to clarify the way in which counselling works.

  • In the initial meeting the counsellor will listen carefully to your concerns, will assist in identifying the main issues and will help in drawing up together a plan of work.
  • The counsellor will encourage you to express your thoughts and feelings, in an environment that is confidential, non-judgemental and professional.
  • On-going evaluation is an essential part of the counselling process to facilitate the best personal development outcome(s).
  • Professional support and encouragement is provided to engage effectively with issues that one might otherwise find challenging to address.
  • Counselling often engages in the area between what we know and are comfortable with and that which we are less aware of and less comfortable with. This often is the area of greatest potential personal development.
  • Counselling may involve changing one's behaviour and/or perspective and/or finding constructive ways to dealing with a situation that is presently beyond personal control.