LK Counselling I am often asked if I work with a specific type of “problem” and my experience over the years has taught me that an anxiety/ depression/ negative way of behaviour or thinking etc is as a result of trying to find a way to cope with a trauma, and/or a loss of sense of who we are. Very often, the coping mechanism which was brought in to survive to begin with, if maintained, can affect our lives in a negative way. Generally we don’t realise that we are stuck in a particular way of behaving or thinking and feeling, and counselling is a space to explore and learn about ourselves and then to change.
Some clients come to counselling to look at a specific event which they are struggling to come to terms with, or are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, grief, or depression. Others have had early childhood trauma and continual problems facing them in adult life, or recent trauma whether that is physical or emotional. Some feel they are at a crossroad in their life and need a safe place to work out where they are going. Whatever the reason, entering into a counselling relationship can be the life changing.
Knowing how hard it is to move on from trauma, I have trained in a neuro-therapy called EMI (eye movement integration) which I integrate into my practice where appropriate. Many clients have experienced great relief in the reduction of the very distressing symptoms of PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) and following on from that have been able to change patterns of negative thinking and behaving and feeling. EMI can also be very helpful in reducing phobias and fears.
If you would like some more information around how to choose a counsellor, what to expect, and other related issues, please see my “Link” page and go to the “Its good to talk” link on the BACP site.