Like choosing a book...

Choosing a counsellor can often feel like a daunting task. Once the decision has been made that the time has come to talk with someone it can often feel overwhelming choosing, where to begin?

In simplistic terms it could be compared to reading a book. I personally have to be in the right place (frame of mind) to read a book. I am sometimes envious of individuals who are able to constantly read something, and even have one or two books on the go simultaneously- now that just blows my mind!

Choosing what to read is making an informed decision and choice, as is choosing a counsellor. Some individuals go by recommendations from their friends or family, whilst others pro-actively search. Google can be a good place to start, as can counselling directories and websites that have all the counsellors within a search distance pop up... This can be overwhelming, which one to choose?

As with choosing a book, we can be drawn in by the front cover or font, whilst the old adage is don't judge a book by it's cover, there is a lot that can be said for going on gut instinct, we are often drawn to something we see for a reason - we just need to be mindful of what or why this has awakened our senses. Next, we tend to read the blurb on the back of the book, if it grabs us and we understand what is written, we take the next step... Once again, the same can be said about choosing the right counsellor for you. What draws you to their picture? Do you connect with the text they have written? Do you understand it (there is no shame in not understanding it, as there are some who blind us with the big words, phrases and terminology; and miss the point that many individuals seeking a counsellor just want someone to listen and support them.)

Finally, we might dip into the book and read a couple of pages. The majority of counsellors offer an introductory session (some are free, some are at a reduced cost, whilst others charge for a full session), the choice is yours. The introductory session allows both of you the opportunity to see if counselling is right for you, but more importantly can you connect with this specific counsellor. We don't always continue to read the book we've chosen, the same is true of counselling, it has to be right for you at this moment in time, and this is ok.

Whilst this insight might seem simplistic to some, for others it can help to realise that choosing the right counsellor for you may take time and a couple of goes, but once you find the right one you are one step closer to finding the best you too.

Good luck with your counselling journey, if you wish to contact me, please do using the link below. It might be the best choice you've made.

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