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John Waller

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What is counselling and psychotherapy?

'Though most people will be aware of the term 'counselling', you may have come across the term 'psychotherapy' and differentiating between these terms is useful when understanding which therapy will be best suited to you. Both counselling and psychotherapy involve talking to someone who is trained to listen and there is no definitive distinction between counselling and psychotherapy. However, in general, counselling is a talking therapy which allows individuals to deal with specific life issues, whereas psychotherapy is used to deal with 'deeper' issues, most commonly with those whose past experiences are still causing them distress. It may be helpful to think of counselling and psychotherapy as being at either ends of a scale. At one end would be brief counselling to deal with a specific problem, at the other end would be intense psychotherapy to deal with deep rooted problems.

However the main factor that usually determines how successful the therapy is does not lie with the technique used, but with the actual counsellor or psychotherapist. How you connect with the counsellor or psychotherapist you choose is likely to determine how successful the treatment is' (Counselling directory).

My approach

My approach involves person-centred counselling, strategies from cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and mindfulness.

Person-Centred Counselling

The goal of person centred counselling is to provide clients with an opportunity to develop a sense of self wherein they can realize how their attitudes, feelings and behaviour are being negatively affected and make an effort to find their true positive potential. Therapists create a comfortable, non-judgmental environment by demonstrating congruence (genuineness), empathy, and unconditional positive regard toward their clients while using a non-directive approach. The therapist listens and reflects or restates without judgment or interpretation the words of the client. The goal of the therapy is personal growth achieved by the client's increased awareness and understanding of his or her attitudes, feelings, and behavior. Ultimately this aids clients in finding their own solutions to their problems.

CBT

Cognitive-behavioural therapy is one of the most well-known psychotherapies, and with good reason. Especially in the areas of depression and anxiety related conditions, it has shown to be as effective as medication in relieving symptoms. CBT has three main goals:

  • To relieve symptoms and resolve problems
  • To help people to acquire coping strategies
  • To help modify unhelpful thinking patterns in order to prevent relapse

The primary concern is always to help you solve the problems which you have targeted for change. Often it is sufficient to combine CBT and traditional counselling to bring about positive change. Positive change can be more profound and lasting by combining CBT with mindfulness meditation practices.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness meditation practices help us become more aware of the present moment, and of subtle changes in our bodies and minds. Through enhanced awareness we can gain clarity and insight into what's upsetting us. This enables us to respond in a calm, clear headed way to regain balance and perspective. We learn a basic understanding of what causes and maintains our low moods, depressions, stresses, anxieties and how to spot the warning signals and what to do to look after ourselves before distress take's hold. Mindfulness practices can be learned in the counselling/therapy sessions and with recommended reading or by joining one of the  on going courses. Read more in the link MBCT course above.

Consultation and therapy sessions

Consultations and therapy sessions last 50 minutes. In the initial consultation we have the opportunity to talk about your problem and discuss ways in which we can work together to help alleviate it. The therapy sessions will be tailored to achieve this outcome and to help you maintain good psychological health

Fees

The sessions cost £40. Some concessionary places are available for those on low incomes.

Confidentiality and Ethics

As a member of the UKCP I work within their strict Code of Ethics and Practice. This ensures good, safe and responsible practice. What client and therapist talk about during the session remains confidential.

Cancellations and missed sessions

If I have to cancel a session I will give you as much notice as possible. Please give me as much notice as possible if you need to rearrange or cancel a session; cancelling with less than 24 hours notice will result in a charge of half the fee. Missing a session without any prior notice or contact will be charged at the regular rate. Mitigating circumstances will always be considered.

Supervision for therapists and students of mindfulness or hypnotherapy/psychotherapy courses

I'm currently supervising Exeter University MBCT diploma course students and National College of Hypnosis and Psychotherapy diploma students. I am also able to offer supervision to newly qualified therapists working in similar modalities of psychotherapy in the Bath and Bristol areas

Counselling and psychotherapy for student counsellors and psychotherapists

I offer counselling and psychotherapy for students on recognised counselling and psychotherapy courses at a reduced rate.

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 ©John Waller                                                                                                                              For the mindfulness courses website click on:  www.mindfulnesscoursesbath-bristol.co.uk