What is counselling?

What is counseling? Is it simply one person listening to another discuss their problems? Is it someone offering advice? Continue reading to learn more.

To define counselling, we begin with the individual facilitating the process - the counsellor. A counsellor is a professionally trained individual who provides assistance to clients in overcoming personal or relationship challenges. Counselling is the process by which the counsellor helps clients address these difficulties. It's important for a counsellor to be trained in their field, as they have a responsibility towards the client's mental health and wellness. The counselling process relies on a trusting relationship between the counsellor and the client, where the client feels supported, understood, and accepted. Sessions occur regularly in a safe and private environment where the client can discuss their concerns and difficulties. At Geheel, the counselling process typically spans 6 to 12 sessions. The aim is for the client to feel empowered to tackle obstacles independently after the process.

During sessions, the counsellor guides a process whereby the client discovers the best approach to their problems. The counsellor is not an advice giver who forces clients to follow specific “one size fits all” steps, but rather a facilitator who uses psychological tools and techniques to help clients find the best solutions for their unique situations. Counselling involves hours of exploration. The counsellor and the client explore the client’s life; their strengths and weaknesses; their successes and failures; their background and future. Where necessary, the counsellor will impart knowledge and skills helpful to the client. Throughout the process, the client is guided to develop solutions that fit their unique competencies.

It is important that when a client visits a counsellor, the client feels heard, understood, and accepted. As with any relationship, it takes time to build trust and for a client to feel comfortable sharing their private information and inner experiences with a counsellor. At Geheel, trust is everything. The aim will always be to treat clients with dignity and respect; to treat all they share as sacred.

I believe for a client to be truly heard and understood, it is absolutely essential that the counsellor is completely present and engaged in the session. This presence goes beyond mere physical attendance; it encompasses a deep emotional and mental commitment to the client’s experience. A counsellor who is fully present demonstrates an unwavering focus on the client, creating a safe and supportive environment where the individual feels valued and respected. This level of engagement allows clients to express themselves freely, knowing that their thoughts and feelings are being acknowledged without judgment.

A big part of counselling is positive regard. Counsellors are trained to view their clients with positive regard-with complete acceptance. Counsellors should not judge their clients' actions or make them feel judged. Clients should not have to do anything to be accepted. Clients are accepted simply because they are… At Geheel, clients are viewed as inherently valuable regardless of their actions and background. Counsellors understand that people behave in many different ways for many different reasons – because of background and culture; brain-wiring; learned behaviours; or disabilities. Counsellors accept that people are doing the best they can with what they have. Through exploration, the client and the counsellor can determine whether behaviours are helpful or unhelpful. If a client wants to change unhelpful behaviours, the counsellor assists the client to do so.

After leaving a counselling session or process, the client should understand themselves and their situations better. They should feel capable of tackling whatever issue it was that brought them to counselling. Clients should have newly learned and discovered knowledge and skills to make the changes they need to make in their lives.