BLANK ROWS
Counselling
Finding the Right Counsellor
Finding the right counsellor in your area can seem like an overwhelming and daunting prospect. There are so many different approaches, therapies, websites and counsellors to choose from. Hopefully the information on my 'Home' page and 'About Me' page will have answered most of your questions regarding who I am, where and how I practice and I hope this page may answer some further or more general questions you may have about counselling but please feel free to email me if you have any other questions you would like answered before making an appointment.
What is Counselling and Person-Centred Counselling?
The NHS defines counselling as “a talking therapy that allows a person to talk about their problems and feelings in a confidential and dependable environment.” (NHS Choices: Your health, your choices,
http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Counselling/Pages/Introduction.aspx, 2016)
Person-Centred counselling was created and is based on the theory and philosophy of Dr Carl Rogers. It is one of the humanistic approaches to counselling and you may have heard of it because of its non-directive qualities and client-centred approach. Person-centred counselling values the uniqueness of the individual and allows the client to freely express any emotions and feelings they may have in a safe and therapeutic environment and supports the client to recognise their own capacity for self-healing and personal growth.
Who are the BACP?
The acronym BACP stands for the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy which is the largest professional body representing counsellors and psychotherapists in the UK. I became a member because I wanted to show my dedication to practice responsibly, ethically and to the highest standards. By being a registered member of the BACP I am showing my commitment to adhere to their Ethical Framework and to set a aside throughout the year the required number of Continuing Professional Development hours for further training and development. By being a member I also benefit from keeping up to date with the latest news and developments from within the industry through their professional magazine and their research journal. I am also on their Therapist Directory -
(https://www.bacp.co.uk/profile/179fb964-5190-e711-80e8-3863bb351d40/therapist)
What is the Ethical framework?
The Ethical framework which is how it is commonly referred to within counselling is a document published by the BACP; its full title is the "BACP Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions”. This document contains details of the ethics and values which you would expect to find in the counselling room and provides a code of guidance and good practice to all concerned in the field of counselling and psychotherapy.
A copy of which can be found at
http://www.bacp.co.uk/ethical_framework/index.php
What is Supervision?
Confidentiality and attending supervision are two important aspects of good practice. Our sessions together are confidential (there are limitations to confidentiality based on safeguarding and law but these will be clarified during our first session together). Another major aspect of good practice which you may have heard of is Supervision. Attending regular and thorough outside Supervision is my commitment of ensuring and enhancing the quality of my service and my commitment to my own personal development. Supervision and ethical standards are important in promoting safe and professional counselling practices.
