“Why should I see a counsellor?”, “Do I have to speak to a professional?”, “I don’t know what to talk about,” “I don’t know where to start,” “What if I don’t like the counsellor?” — these are all common questions people ask before considering professional counselling.
There are many reasons someone might decide to see a counsellor. Some of these include:
- Relationship difficulties or separation
- Worries about the future or setting goals
- Feelings of sadness, confusion, or anger
- Family challenges
- Childhood trauma or other traumatic experiences
- Suicidal thoughts, intrusive thoughts, or self-harm
- Anxiety or depression
- A desire to develop a stronger sense of self and live a more fulfilling life
As you can see, the list is extensive — and there are no right or wrong reasons to seek counselling. Some people attend on their own, while others come with a partner or family member. At Innate Therapies, we can facilitate different arrangements to suit your needs.
Even if you have a strong support network, it can still be beneficial to speak with a professional. As counsellors, we approach your concerns without bias. We listen wholeheartedly, work with you to develop strategies, and use a client-centred approach — meaning the support we offer is tailored specifically to you. We understand that each person is unique, and so are their experiences.
It’s also perfectly okay not to know what to talk about or where to start. Some people arrive with notes or a list of things they want to discuss, while others prefer to see where the conversation leads. Either approach is welcome. Your counsellor will help you identify areas you’d like to explore, but we also understand that it may take a few sessions to build trust and rapport.
That said, it can be helpful to think ahead about what you might feel comfortable discussing. This helps you get the most out of your sessions and allows your counsellor to plan how best to support you moving forward.
Sometimes, people come to counselling hoping for a quick fix. As much as we understand that desire, meaningful change takes time. Counsellors, therapists, and psychologists don’t have magic wands — but we are here to walk alongside you, offering support and encouragement as you incorporate strategies into your daily life. These strategies can help reduce distressing thoughts or feelings, and promote a greater sense of wellbeing and empowerment.
And what if you don’t connect with your counsellor? That’s okay, too. We’re all human, and sometimes it takes a couple of tries to find the right fit. At Innate Therapies, we have different practitioners available and will do our best to match you with someone you’re comfortable with. Your current counsellor will not be offended if you request a change — your wellbeing is our priority.
We look forward to supporting you on your journey.
