Counselling, or talking therapy, is one of the treatment options available for people suffering from depression. As several studies show, depression counselling can be as effective as antidepressants in treating this mental health problem. It was proven to minimise episodes, and in some cases, it even helped patients overcome their condition.
It should be noted, however, that counselling’s efficacy is affected by several factors including the type of counsellor. Hence, if you are considering this treatment option, you need to carefully choose the professional you’d be working with.
Who Is the Right Counsellor for You?
Before you begin searching for one, you need to know the definition of “right counsellor”. Basically, the “right counsellor” is someone who has the needed qualifications. She should have the education, training and accreditations required to offer counselling services.
Formal education or training is necessary to become an effective counsellor. The truth is that, even after finishing their counselling courses, these professionals attend seminars or trainings to expand their knowledge and stay abreast with the developments in their field of expertise. It is also one of the requirements for them to keep their accreditation.
Moreover, the counsellor needs to be someone who specialise in what you need – depression counselling. This is to ensure that she is equipped with the knowledge and skills essential in treating your condition.
On top of the needed qualifications, the counsellor should also be someone who is experienced. A seasoned professional has a wealth of real-life client experiences and learnings. All these help hone her counselling skills, enabling her to become better in her craft.
While qualifications and experience are important, these are not just the only things which you should look for in a counsellor. You also have to put a premium on her demeanour.
For one, she should be discreet – a highly important trait for counsellors. She should also make you feel comfortable. You see, counselling only works if you talk honestly and freely. This cannot happen if you are uneasy around your counsellor.
Simply put, the right counsellor for you is someone who is qualified and experienced. More importantly, she is someone you can trust – a professional you are comfortable talking to.
How to Find the Right Counsellor in Ireland
Now that you know what to look for in a counsellor, the next step is to find one. How do you do this?
You can go the traditional way and ask for referrals from relatives and friends. However, if you want something more discreet, you can opt to do an online search.
Once you have a list of names, the next thing you need to do is to gather information about each one of them. Visit their websites to learn about them – their credentials, specialisation, years in service, etc. Nowadays, it is also possible to find reviews/feedback from previous clients through online directories.
From your research, try to narrow down your list to two or three counsellors. Interview them. Ask them about their experience treating conditions such as yours. You can also inquire about their methods or how they do their counselling. Don’t forget to ask about their rates, location and session schedule as well. This interview should allow you to gauge if the counsellor is the right fit for you.
If the interview was done via phone, it may be best to defer your decision until you meet the counsellor face-to-face. You’d only know if you are going to be comfortable talking to her after you’ve met her.
Remember, your counsellor plays an integral role in the success of your depression counselling. So, make sure you find someone who fits your requirements and needs.
Access Clinic is a trusted depression counselling clinic in Dublin with qualified and discreet counsellors. Call us today on 01 5240708 to schedule an appointment.
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