What are Psychotherapy and Counselling?

 

For individuals

Many people seek help from psychotherapy or counselling because they are burdened and feel distressed. In a busy world it is often a relief to share these feelings with a person who is out side their situation and can reflect with them on what they are doing and saying.

Counselling and Psychotherapy help the individual gain a clearer understanding of what lead them into their difficulties. They may reflect on past patterns and the causes of their behaviours so that they can make links. We have a tendency to repeat patterns even when we would like to change. Making links may allow the person to consider a different way of dealing with a situation or an individual. Through looking at their behaviour patterns in the consulting room the individual can explore them without fearing that they will be judged.

The relationship between the psychotherapist and counsellor is central to this process, so that after an introduction, the counsellor will not talk further about themselves or answer personal questions. The 50 minute session can be used as the individual wishes, to talk about whatever is their concern. Some people find this process uncomfortable at first and it helps to tell your psychotherapist or counsellor if this is your experience. Also any concerns you may have about confidentiality should be discussed so that they can be explored.

Psychotherapy and Counselling have much in common. Psychotherapy is sometimes considered to be a deeper and longer process.

As part of their training all counsellors and psychotherapists at the Quay Clinic Hereford have had their own personal therapy and will be in supervision.

 

Families

Family Therapy is based on the idea that if an individual is experiencing difficulties, then everyone in the family is affected. In turn, the ideas, beliefs and responses of family members affect each individual. Family Therapy focusses on how we behave and think about ourselves in relation to others.

Family Therapy can be helpful at times of

  • Transition and change
  • Bereavement and loss
  • Communication difficulties
  • Conflict within the family
  • Crises affecting family members

An assessment session can be for any family member or members. We can talk about the concerns that Family Therapy may be able to help with and about who should come to future sessions.

 

Young people and Children

Children aged 5 -12 years are seen at the clinic. We have two qualified therapists to work specifically with this age group. In each specialist case an assessment in undertaken and the appropriate referral made either within or outside the clinic. Each assessment is made in consultation with parents or carer.
Referrals can be made by self, GP or other professional agencies.

Young people aged 12-17 are seen at the clinic by therapists experienced in working with this age group. Each young person is required to attend an assessment. This can take place either with or without a parent/carer depending on each individual case.

 

Couples Therapy

Suitable for:

  • Couples who want to develop, grow, or re-evaluate their relationship together.
  • Couples where one or both want to separate but who may want to look at particular issues e.g. the children.