Counselling is a type of talking therapy. People talk to a counsellor about their problems. Counsellors are trained to listen sympathetically and can help people deal with any negative thoughts and feelings that they have.
There are several different types of counselling. For example, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is used to retrain a person’s way of thinking to help them cope with stressful situations.
For more information on different types of counselling, see Types of counselling, above.
NICE recommendations
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) recommends certain types of counselling for treating a number of different health conditions.
Counselling may be helpful in treating the following conditions:
- depression,
- anxiety,
- obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD),
- post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD),
- long-term illnesses,
- eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia, and
- substance abuse.
The aims of counselling
Counselling can help people:
- discuss their problems honestly and openly,
- deal with issues that are preventing them from achieving their goals and ambitions, and
- have a more positive outlook on life.
Talking therapy
Everyone has different ways of coping with their personal difficulties. People often deal with stressful situations and events by talking to their partner, a family member or a friend. However, in certain situations, talking to a professional counsellor may be more helpful.
Admitting you need help is a positive step
At some stage, you will probably experience feelings of stress, disappointment and grief. At these times, seeking assistance can help you deal with your feelings and emotions.
Counselling can be a positive way of addressing any unresolved issues that you have. It can help you to understand your problems better, rather than ignoring them and hoping that they will go away, only for them to come back later. It can also give you a better understanding of other people's points of view.
