As a local Melbourne holistic counsellor who works with clients in both Armadale and Malvern I am always appreciative of the daunting process clients may have experienced when trying to choose a counsellor.
I am aware it can be a leap of faith for a client to choose a counsellor that is right for them and their specific needs out of the myriad of professionals that may be advertised within just one local area.
Having a diverse range of therapists to choose from is a wonderful thing, but it can also be confusing and anxiety provoking as the client tries to decide who they will trust with their most precious possession…their inner landscape.
I would like to suggest that more than a leap of faith can be applied when making such an important decision as to who you will entrust with your mental health, private world and wellbeing. It is possible to narrow down the decision of whom you would like to work with by asking yourself some discerning questions that may help you to navigate your way to the right therapist for you.
1. Do you feel a connection to the information displayed on the counsellor’s promotional material and website?
2. Does the counsellor describe the theoretical frameworks they work from?
There is little point making an appointment to work with a counsellor whose clinical approach is in contrast with your personal belief systems i.e., if you don’t believe in Reiki, it would be advisable to avoid counsellors who specialize exclusively in energy work.
3. Does the counsellor have current membership to one or more professional counselling associations?
This ensures your counsellor practises within the framework of a professional code of ethics, is continually updating their professional development and is under the mentorship of a clinical supervisor.
4. Is the counsellor happy to take a no-obligation telephone call from you and spend some time discussing your presenting concerns before making the first booking to see you?
A few minutes invested in a telephone call gives you the opportunity to get a feel for whom you are taking to and allows both of you to ascertain if the counsellor has the relevant skills to work with your particular issues.
5. Are the counsellor’s rooms conveniently located to ensure ease of transportation to and from appointments?
Depending on the nature of your concerns, you may require at least 6-12 sessions and it is important the counsellor’s rooms are geographically convenient for you to access.
6. After navigating all of the above questions and you have an initial appointment with your counsellor, ask yourself:
- Did I feel deeply heard and understood by my counsellor?
- Did the counsellor pick up on the key issues I presented with?
- Did my counsellor demonstrate genuine empathy for me?
- Is my counsellor willing and capable of empowering me to find a solution regarding my concerns?
- Do I feel safe enough to reveal myself and my worries to this person?
If you want your life to change direction I encourage you to take the first step by calling me on 0405 313 876 to find out how I can help you.
While you’re here, feel free to read more about my services or watch the Welcome video on the home page.