Understanding Counselling and Gestalt Therapy: A Guide to Choosing the Right Therapist

Understanding Counselling

Counselling is a process that involves a trained professional providing guidance and support to individuals, couples, or families who are facing various challenges in their lives. It is a collaborative effort between the client and the counsellor, where the counsellor creates a safe and non-judgmental space for the client to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

Counselling aims to help individuals gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their experiences, develop coping strategies, and make positive changes in their lives. It can address a wide range of issues, including but not limited to:

• Relationship problems
• Stress and anxiety
• Depression
• Grief and loss
• Trauma
• Self-esteem issues

What is Gestalt Therapy?

Gestalt therapy is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on the present moment and the client’s experience of their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Developed by Fritz Perls in the 1940s, Gestalt therapy emphasizes the importance of awareness, personal responsibility, and the integration of mind, body, and spirit.

In Gestalt therapy, the therapist and the client work together to explore the client’s patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving. The therapist helps the client become aware of their internal experiences and how they relate to others and the world around them. This increased awareness allows the client to gain insight into their challenges and make changes that align with their values and goals.

Gestalt therapy is often experiential and may involve techniques such as role-playing, empty chair dialogue, and body awareness exercises. It encourages clients to take responsibility for their choices and actions, and to fully experience and express their emotions in a safe and supportive environment.

10 Questions to Ask a Counsellor

When seeking counselling, it is important to find a qualified and experienced professional who is the right fit for you. Here are ten questions you can ask a potential counsellor to help you make an informed decision:

1. What is your educational background and training in counselling?
2. Are you licensed or accredited by a professional counseling organization?
3. What is your approach to counselling?
4. Do you have experience working with clients who have similar issues to mine?
5. What is your availability and how often would we meet?
6. What is your fee structure and do you offer any sliding scale options?
7. What are your confidentiality policies?
8. How do you handle emergencies or crisis situations?
9. What is your cancellation policy?
10. How do you measure progress or success in counselling?

Asking these questions can help you gather important information about the counsellor’s qualifications, approach, and fit with your specific needs. It is essential to feel comfortable and confident with your counsellor to ensure a productive and effective therapeutic relationship.