counselling advice?

concrete girl · 20-07-2007, 10:27 PM

This past week I have been trying to fill out an intake form for counselling in my area, but I was only ever able to fill out my name, etc. before I got too scared and intimated by such questions as "what do you want to discuss in counselling?"

I never finished the form, but they have contacted me to see if I am interested ...

I am interested, but I feel like not being able to even tell a form what's wrong is not a good sign. I don't want to show up for an appointment only to sit in silence and look at my feet.

I think things are bad enough now that I really need to do this, I just don't know how. If anyone has any advice... it would be muchly appreciated.
krysta

beautifullybroken89 · 20-07-2007, 11:21 PM

sweetie initially counseling can be intimidating and it may be very difficult to talk, but with time you will be able to open up more than you thought you ever could. give it a go, it can only make things better.

Stellata · 21-07-2007, 06:49 AM

Quote:

I am interested, but I feel like not being able to even tell a form what's wrong is not a good sign.

Struggling to put into words what troubles you I would say is one very strong reason for your need for help. They probably picked up on this. Try and trust the process and go gently, counselling can help you find words for what is distressing you. Back when I first started therapy, I couldn't describe exactly what was wrong, although something clearly was, and I knew that at the back of my mind.

~hunni~ · 21-07-2007, 02:38 PM

When I first started counselling I found it so hard to express myself; I couldn't say what was wrong and it did frustrate me because I wanted someone to help me. However, I stuck with it and found ways around the difficulty of expressing myself by writing things down or having my therapist ask closed questions so it was easier for me to give an answer. There were also sessions that I went to where I spent long periods of time in silence and although it annoyed me at the time, looking back on my time in therapy it was helpful because it gave me a space where I could just 'be.' What I'm trying to say is, is that therapy isn't always easy, even if you want to go and even if you really want the help. It's something that you have to work at, sometimes really hard and it is a long process. But it can be hugely beneficial, so if it's being offered to you and you feel like you need some support, then it's probably going to be good for you.
Take care
xxx

Rex_Mundi · 24-07-2007, 08:50 PM

i think everyone's of the same mind here...counselling is definitely helpful and definitely difficult to initiate. my first session , i DID just stare at my feet the whole hour. and ya know what that was ok, i was all 'sorry for wasting your time' but the councellor was very patient and kind, to each in their own time! the next time we talked about the weather and sport, as i still wasnt ready to tackle the big issues. getting to know the councellor first makes you loads more comfortable, i mean wouldnt you confide in a friend before a complete stranger? take it as slow as you need, they are here to help !!

concrete girl · 27-07-2007, 02:28 AM

Thank you everyone, for all of your encouragement.
The counselling center contacted me, but the person they assigned my file to didn't have the time for me, so now I'm waiting to be reassigned.
I'm still nervous about it, but maybe it will be okay.
Thank you =)

Stellata · 27-07-2007, 08:59 AM

Remember that the counsellor is on your side. :)