who is it for 
At any one time 10% of the general population is suffering from depression and more than 10% has one or other of the anxiety disorders (inc. eating disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, social anxiety, panic and/or generalised anxiety, post traumatic stress distress disorder).
Counselling is for anyone who wants to change the way that they feel about themselves and the way that they experience life. Unfortunately, prejudice about emotional distress may stop people from using a service which they could really benefit from. Many people feel that it is a sign of weakness or inadequacy to seek assistance in this way. Some may feel that it is self-indulgent or that they should just "pull themselves together". Such self-critical thoughts and feelings are often at their strongest during times of emotional distress and can be the very things that stop people getting the help they need to make the changes that they want.
Emotional distress is the result of negative experiences and our attempts to cope with these with the resources that we have. These resources are not always sufficient. Although it may not feel like it, we are rarely responsible for, or have had control over the past experiences that cause emotional distress. However, we do have control over making changes to resolve them. It can often feel easier to just continue as you are, however this will not get you to where you want to be. It takes courage to face your problems and work to resolve these. Change of any type requires tolerance of discomfort and distress in the short-term in order to reap longer-term benefits, changing the way you feel about yourself and your experience of life is no different.
Counselling can help with a range of problems including:
- depression and low mood
- anxiety
- panic attacks
- eating disorders
- obsessive compulsive disorders
- trauma
- relationship problems
- low self esteem and confidence
- grief
- self harm
- sleep problems
- physical pain
- life changes
- general dissatisfaction/distress
