What is Counselling?
Men's Mental Health
We are, as a society, guilty of telling boys and men that they have to be tough.
We have taught our boys and men not to show their feelings
We say things like "Man Up" and "Grow a Pair".
These are not phrases any man who is struggling, even a little bit, wants to hear.
So, is it any wonder that our men don't show their feelings? The worst part is that we moan about our men being emotionally illiterate.
Counselling is not a sign of weakness; it takes courage to make the call.
If you are struggling, make the call before it's too late, before everything falls apart.
Counselling is confidential and you can talk about anything you like, hopes, fears, frustrations, football, beer, politics...anything!
I am able to fully engage in a conversation about football but cannot, for the life of me, get to grips with the rules of rugby!
A Little Bit About Me
I am a qualified Counsellor (Dip. Couns) specialising in therapy for men.
Why? well, one reason is that most men would rather see a female therapist.
Probably because you don't have to be tough with us.
As I grew up in an all male household from the age of 12 and now having a husband and two sons of my own (still an all male household apart from me and one of our dogs) I think I get you.
I understand how hard it can be.
To be a man burdened with so much expectation and responsibility
When people tell us we are coping really well (with whatever it might be), it usually means we are hiding it really well.
We know we cannot hide it nor hide from it forever, it will sneak up on us when we least expect it.
Am I the right person to help you? There's only one way to find out!
I live and work in Fordingbridge, just outside the New Forest in Hampshire.
People say I am warm, friendly and easy to talk to.
I don't know how that happens; it just does!
Frame of Mind Counselling see clients from Fordingbridge, Ringwood, Salisbury, Bournemouth and online.
Confidentiality and Ethics
What does this mean?
Counselling is confidential and this is of the upmost importance to me.
Brief notes will be kept in accordance with Data Protection laws (GDPR)
All Counsellors have a Clinical Supervisor. This is for your benefit and ours. Your name will never be revealed nor any details that may identify you.
Client confidentiality is taken very seriously indeed.
Ethics
The code of Ethics as set out by The National Counselling Society are adhered to.
This means that, amongst other things, your best interests always come first.
Our working Relationship
The Client - Counsellor relationship is like no other.
It really is all about you.
You can talk about anything at all.
You will never be judged and I hope you will always feel supported in the Counselling room.