What's the realism of Councelling?

[MrsSnape]

I have alot of issues. Alot of bitterness about my childhood, issues with my confidence...anger...

I'm determined to make next year a new start for me and have wondered if councelling would be a step in the right direction.

But what's the realism of it? I cant afford to go private so I assume it would be a case of going to a GP to get referred...how long would this be likely to take and would he just stick me on AD's instead?

i've been seeing councellors on and off(due to money and changing circumstances) for about 5 years. that was the worst way around it...definatly if you start keep going for as long as you can. once you bring everything to the forefront of your mind its much easier to work and work at it until it's sorted...rather than what i did which was work at it then stop, then have to start from scratch again. however i did go to one through my gp. it was good when i got seen. the only thing was that i had one session a week at the most(as usual nhs...time is an obvious limiting factor) but for only 6 weeks! and that was it...i couldnt go back for anymore. as i'm sure your aware these things can never be resolved in 6 WEEKS!!! i actually gave up going the nhs route and just went private. but even thinking about going is a huge step forward so your definatly on the right track!! wish you all the best!

GP counselling seems to have a longish waiting list and, as blondie says, you are limited to just 6 sessions so not really suitable for 'bigger' issues.

Some towns/cities have organisations offering 'affordable' counselling for the community - ie they operate on a sliding scale depending on what you can afford.
I work for a local charity which runs a free service for people (people are encouraged to give donations). Might be worth having an ask-around to see what is out there.

Also MIND often offer local counselling services. Also see if your area has any Women's Centres or similar - this was where our counselling service sprang from.

It is also possible to get cheaper counselling by going with a trainee. Counsellors nearing the end of their lengthy training (Diploma level) often need to complete a minimum of 100 counselling hours and so offer huge discounts. Obviously the ost important thing is that you find a counsellor you feel comfortable at talking about these issues with. Even the most experienced counsellor is not going to be able to help you unless you feel you can trust them IFSWIM.

Good luck.

I have cognitive behaviour therapy on the NHS - because I had deeper issues I got referred on to someone more experienced after my initial 5 sessions