Separation and Divorce


Christine 's story - "letting it out"

The first time I experienced long term counselling was when my ex left me (other issues did come up). After six months of trying to cope alone I realised that if I didn't talk soon I was going to have a breakdown or do something stupid. I went to see a counsellor nearby and his empathy understanding and lack of judgement was the most wonderful feeling of freedom. I even used the F word at one point!! And he just sat there encouraging me to LET IT ALL OUT! I laugh now.

I had always felt judged by my sister, my surrogate mother and my ex-husband; and therefore I held back or controlled my emotions to suit those people's needs, in case I upset them. I had never felt unconditional love from any of the major people in my life. It was 'be this way' or you won't be loved! Very difficult.

Counselling does seem to still carry a stigma on TV and people can often then think they are MAD if they go to see a therapist - which is extremely damaging to the counselling name and to the people who are struggling. It's really just about accepting that sometimes we all need help in life and that we can do something to change how we perceive and deal with things. If you have had to keep quiet for a long time, scared to say anything, then sometimes it takes a lot of support to help you realise that you are allowed your own thoughts, feelings, opinions and life style choices.

I would say please don't struggle alone and if the first counsellor doesn't suits you then find someone else... I've had counselling and taken a counselling course and so I know what it's like on both sides. It's made me a far better person. Take care out there.

If you resonate with Christine’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.

Mark's story: "I needed to change my life"

I have sought many counsellors over the years but, I guess, I was never really 'ready' each time. It was 2014. After separating from my second wife and being thoroughly miserable living on my own in a strange town not knowing anyone, I decided I needed to change my life and the way I looked at things.

I had lost all confidence in myself and was at a very low point. I decided I needed help, so I went to see my GP. He referred me to Mind. I attended an initial assessment then waited a good few weeks (10 in fact) before I saw anyone.

I then got to meet my counsellor, who was brilliant from the start. She seemed to understand me straight away and we got on really well. The sessions would always go so quickly, when I left the session every week, I couldn't wait for next. She made me feel like I was living again and I can't thank her enough.

She helped me realise where I was going wrong and that, if problems occurred again, I would be able to deal with them in a confident way.

I am just about to start my level 5 diploma in counselling. I have found the whole process so amazing and I want to learn more. I would just like to say this women changed my life for the better and can't thank her enough. I am also now in a long-term relationship and couldn't be happier.

If you resonate with Mark’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.