I know how scary it can be to make first contact with a counsellor. I also know that not every counsellor you contact will be right for you. This means you may have to start from scratch multiple times, which can be disheartening.
Because of this, I wanted to share with you a few tips to make the process of finding a counsellor who is right for you go smoother.
1. If writing an email or sending a message seems like too much of a commitment, write down what you want to say in the note app on your phone.
Most of us will have an app on our phones that lets us take notes. If you don’t, then a word processor or note app on a laptop will work just as well. The idea here is to write down what you want to say with absolutely no commitment to sending it. Just because you have written it down doesn’t mean it will go anywhere. But when you are ready, copying and pasting will make the process of sending it much quicker and less daunting.
2. Keep a copy of your message.
Because your first choice may not work out, its helpful to keep a copy of the message you sent. That way copy and paste can come to the rescue (again) and make it much easier to send your next enquiry.
3. Contact a few counsellors at the same time.
You’ve probably heard the saying don’t put all your eggs in one basket. The same goes for trying to find a counsellor. It’s not uncommon for counsellors to be booked up at times you are free or for you to realise the cost of their sessions is too high only after you have made contact.
You may get as far as having an assessment session with them, but then decide they are not a good fit for you. That is perfectly fine, counselling is a very personal process so you should always try and find someone you feel comfortable talking to. It is completely acceptable to tell the counsellor that you won’t be returning after your assessment session and try again with someone else.
You should always let counsellors you haven’t chosen know that you decided to go with someone else once you have made your decision. But it helps reduce disappointment and puts the ball in your court if you have multiple options open to you.
I hope these tips are helpful if you are considering counselling. If you feel like getting in touch to arrange an assessment session, you can text or call me (when you are ready) on: 07588 117305 or send me an email at: sophie@sbcounselling.co.uk .
