Clare's story -"Getting help"
I am currently having counselling for my many many phobias. I found the first few weeks quite difficult and emotionally very exhausting. But, it was also liberating.
I was (and still am) going through a delayed grieving process which, amongst other things, I expect is why it was particularly intense. It is still very much 'work in progress' - cliché but an accurate description.
My confidence has increased dramatically. Confidence in my own judgement. I am still me, but with a changing perspective on life. It's very interesting to learn new positive ways of viewing and understanding things - past, present and future. I also started the counselling for anxiety (it stops me from doing certain things -phobias seem to take over) but that is still being worked on; it's going to take time.
I have found that a lot of things connect and make up the bigger picture, as I go along. Things that wouldn't have occurred to me otherwise and, believe me, I am well practised in self-analysis!
Anyway, even though I still have a way to go with my anxiety and all my phobias (it is getting better), it's really helping me overall and there are issues that I am very much making peace with - which makes a big difference to my life and how I feel about me.
If you feel you want to and need to - do it. If you're open to it, it can only help.
If you resonate with Clare’s story and are looking for support, know that help is out there. If you’re ready, you can start your therapy journey by simply contacting progressiveprocess@live.com.au or by clicking here.
Ang: "Counselling has empowered me."
I was told about Existential psychotherapy through an NE charity and, happily, I took up this opportunity. I saw a fab counsellor for pretty much a year. She listened and empathised with me.
I find it very hard to trust people and to let people in and it took a long time before I fully opened up in session. This is the only thing I regret about my experience of counselling - I wish I'd opened up sooner. I found counselling hard and often awkward, especially when I let out how many times I actually washed my hands and how careful I was not to touch certain things. I can see now it as the best thing I have ever done.
I came to have a good working relationship with her and did finally come to trust her. She gave me the time and space in a safe environment to think and to talk. Although I went to discuss long-term health problems and how they have affected my life, it soon dawned on me there was a lot more to explore and discuss.
Although Existential therapy does not directly give you the answers it is a starting point and is very much your own journey. Through my sessions, I came to realise a lot and now constantly ask myself questions. I have achieved a lot since we parted company and I will always be thankful for her help and support, but the work in between and after sessions has been mine. I am proud of that.
I would encourage anybody to give Existential therapy a try. What is there to lose? Perhaps there is more to lose from not giving it a go? Counselling is very empowering. So, do something for you!
If you resonate with Ang’s story and are looking for support, know that help is out there. If you’re ready, you can start your therapy journey by simply contacting progressiveprocess@live.com.au or by clicking here.