Counselling Can Feel Scary - and That's Okay!
It’s not uncommon when clients begin counselling to comment “this is something I’ve been meaning to do for a while” or “I should have started counselling months/years ago.” We tend to prolong starting counselling because we are waiting to feel motivated, waiting until things settle down or waiting for things to improve on their own. But ultimately, counselling can feel intimidating!
It’s very natural to feel nervous about starting something new - especially something so vulnerable such as counselling! Once you decide it’s time and have scheduled an initial session, take an opportunity to commend yourself for taking action then try some of the following suggestions to help you manage your feelings toward the uncertainty of counselling:
You don’t need a script when you arrive & you don’t need to worry about what to say. Your counsellor will help you and lead the conversation with guidance and questions. You can just be yourself in a counselling session.
Be willing to be open, honest and a little vulnerable. You are in a safe space.
Spend a little time thinking about your goals for counselling prior to your initial appointment. If these feel unclear, that’s okay too. Your counsellor will offer support to help you gain clarity.
Ask questions. If it’s helpful, prepare and bring a list of questions that you’d like to ask your counsellor.
Try to be patient. Not everything needs to be said in the first session. Whether you are seeking short or long-term counselling, this is a process that requires some time.
“The willingness to show up changes us - it makes us a little braver each time.”
Carol Ballen (she/her) is a Registered Social Worker offering counselling services to individuals 13+ at our Corydon Avenue location. Her practice has been built over 15 years of experience in counselling and social work. Drawing on her diverse background and expertise, she works collaboratively with clients to identify their unique strengths and resources, both internal and external, and to develop customized plans for achieving their goals. Her therapeutic approach derives from evidence-based practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Solution-Focused, and Trauma Informed Therapy.