Counselling

Counselling Service

Why Counselling?

People who have experienced rape or sexual abuse often suffer from mixed feelings which may include confusion, stress, grief, isolsation or fear. This can lead to self blame, self harm, eating disorders, depression or lack of self esteem for some people.
Others may simply benefit from the opportunity to explore their feelings within the context of a comfortable and safe environment.
It can be difficult to turn to relatives or friends and you may feel that they don't understand you or that it is difficult to talk to people who are emotionally involved. This is when counselling may be helpful.

What is Counselling?

Counselling is a process where a Counsellor meets with a client on a regular basis (usually weekly) in order to help the client look at emotional issues.

Counselling always takes place in a safe, supportive environment and on a one to one basis. The service is confidential and a confidentiality agreement will be explained to you from the outset.

You will not be judged or offered advice by the counsellor but they will work with you to find ways of coping and help you take control of your life again.

All of our Counsellors work to BACP (British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy) guidelines.

How do I arrange to see a Counsellor?

You can make an appointment to see a Counsellor by ringing our contact numbers on the back of this leaflet. Your GP or worker from any other agency can also make the referral on your behalf.

This is a free and confidential service available to males or females over the age of 14 who have been raped or sexually abused at any time in their life.

What happens at my first appointment?

Your first appointment will be an initial assessment which takes around 30 minutes and usually takes place at our centre in Saltersgill.

The initial assessment gives you and the Counsellor an opportunity to discuss your issues and to assess whether or not counselling is best for you.

The Counsellor will also explain the confidentiality policy and you will agree times and duration of counselling sessions.

Follow up counselling sessions will have a duration of one hour.

Hopefully we have answered some of your questions about our Sexual Violence Counselling Service, but if there is anything you would like to ask us please feel free to telephone us and ask to speak to the Counselling team.