Counselling
Counselling what is it?
Counselling is a talking therapy that involves a counsellor and a client/s. The counsellor will listen, challenge and help the client to work through issues to enable them to improve their quality of life.
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Does a counsellor give advice?
Counselling is not about simply listening to a clients issue, nor is counselling about giving advice. Counselling involves the client being pro active and moving towards positive change. The counsellor helps the client to move towards positive change through the use of proven strategies and self-empowerment.
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Is counselling holistic?
Counselling is holistic in nature in as much as it takes into account the whole person including their emotional, spiritual and physical environments.
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Does a counsellor prescribe medication?
Counsellors are not psychologists unless they are registered with the appropriate state psychological board. Counsellors do not prescribe medication; only a registered medical doctor or a Psychiatrist can do this.
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Are all counsellors the same?
There are many types of counsellors and each one will use a different modality and style to suit your issue. Eg; a relationship counsellor will work with couples and investigate communication issues, attitudes, responses, behaviours etc.
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What types of issues can counsellors help me with?
The types of issues counsellors can help with are: grief and loss, trauma, anger, mild depression, sexual issues, gender issues, work issues such as bullying, personal problems, parenting issues, stress, life skills, conflict resolution, career guidance and rehabilitation.
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Can a counsellor diagnose?
Counsellors in general, unless they are psychologists, are not qualified to diagnose mental illness such as schizophrenia, paranoia, bi polar disorder or any other disorder found in the Diagnostic Statistical Manual IV TR.
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Is counselling regulated?
Counselling/Psychotherapy in Australia is a self-regulating profession. Counsellors/psychotherapists are not by law required to meet any specific standard. It is the job of professional associations such as the Australian Counselling Association to set professional standards. A counsellor who is a member of a professional body such as the Australian Counselling Association has committed to abide by an agreed code of conduct and meet training standards.
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