Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need counselling?
Understanding when to seek counseling can be challenging. Common signs include persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or difficulty coping with daily tasks.What can I expect in the first counselling session?
Initial sessions typically involve an introduction to the counselor, discussing confidentiality, and exploring your concerns and goals for counseling.How long does counselling typically last?
The duration varies depending on individual needs and goals. Some find relief after a few sessions, while others may benefit from longer-term counseling. We offer both short term and long term counselling.Is everything discussed in counselling confidential?
Yes. Our counsellors are bound by a code of ethics. Confidentiality is crucial in counseling. But there are legal and ethical exceptions, such as concerns for your safety or others'.What happens if I don't feel comfortable with my counsellor?
Open communication is key. If you feel uncomfortable, you can talk to your counsellor or contact our Mental Health Manager, Julie, who is impartial and confidential.How much does counselling cost?
Our counselling is absolutely free for those living in Pembrokeshire. We have no requirements or hoops to jump through. Just book a session and we will welcome you with open arms.Is counselling only for people with serious mental health issues?
No, counselling is for anyone whether you're seeking personal growth, experiencing emotional distress, relationship difficulties, life transitions, stress, anxiety, depression, or grief.What happens if I miss a session?
Counselling is a collaborative process, and life happens. If you need to miss a session, inform your counselor in advance, and you can work together to reschedule. Consistency is valuable, but flexibility is also recognised.What if i don't know what to talk about but I just feel sad or anxious?
Your counsellor will guide the conversation if you want them to, asking questions to help explore your feelings, thoughts, and experiences. Sometimes, simply acknowledging your emotions is a significant first step toward understanding and addressing them.A message from us to you ...
We understand that starting a counselling relationship can be a new and perhaps a challenging experience. Our counsellors are professionally trained, empathetic, and fully aware of the normal concerns people might feel when confiding in a stranger. They will provide you with support, create a safe caring environment, and encourage you every step of the way.
- Counselling is a professional and supportive process.
- It involves talking to a trained counsellor.
- Your counsellor will provide a safe and confidential environment.
- You can openly discuss your feelings, thoughts, and challenges without fear of judgment.
- Your counsellor will listen carefully, offering empathy and understanding.
- They will help you explore any long-standing coping mechanisms that may no longer be helpful to you and process feelings related to past experiences that may be keeping you stuck.
- It's important for the client to be committed to the process, as personal growth often requires effort and dedication.
- Together you'll work on finding solutions and strategies to improve your wellbeing and help you move towards creating a happier and more fulfilling life.
- You don't have to continue with sessions if you're not finding them helpful.
Counselling has been proven to help with a wide range of emotional, psychological, and behavioural challenges, including:
Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Relationship Issues, Grief and Loss, Trauma and PTSD, Addiction, Self-Esteem and Self-Confidence, Life Transitions, Emotional overwhelm, Eating Disorders, Phobias and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders, Parenting Challenges, Workplace Stress, Worry, Loneliness.
Advocacy:
Working with a counsellor to create change requires focus and action. This can be really difficult when we're facing lots of day-to-day challenges, so a good first step might be to have some support from a trained advocate. An Advocate can help with contacting relevant people and services, going with you and supporting you at meetings and appointments and finding information to help you make the best decisions for you. Having received this support you may well feel better able to make full use of your counselling sessions.
If you feel this is the best first step to help your life’s changes, we can refer you to advocacywestwales.org.uk
We look forward to working with you in the future,
From the Pathway Counselling team.