If you talk to different people about what counselling is, it is quite possible that each person will have a different understanding of it. However, in general, Counselling aims to help you cope with personal problems. Usually a psychologist will do this by asking questions, listening to you, reflecting on what you have said and exploring the range of options that may be available to you. Please note that counselling is not about giving you the answer or taking the problem away. It is best to view counselling as a way of putting things into perspective and opening you up to options and resources that you may not have previously considered.

The practitioners at Bayside Counselling and Consultation Pty Ltd understand that it can be difficult for many people to seek professional help.

This may be due to:

fear of being judged

fear that family and friends will find out about the problem

expectations that some things should never be discussed

embarrassment about the problem

concern that seeing a practitioner will draw unwanted attention to the problem or make it worse

feeling inferior or that they are a failure because they cannot handle the situation themselves

fear of being punished because they spoke out about the problem

expectations that they should accept what is happening (or has happened) and just get on with life

lack of understanding about the role of practitioners and what counselling can do for them

It is not uncommon for people to approach us with these fears and concerns. Unfortunately for many people, this can be enough to prevent them from seeking help. The psychologists at Bayside Counselling and Consultation Pty Ltd have a sensitive and caring approach to different issues and understand that your ability to talk to a psychologist may be hindered by:

the nature of your situation or problem

your personal expectations of counselling

language and cultural barriers

a disability that prevents you from physically accessing a psychologist or communicating to others

bad experiences of counselling in the past

other hindrances such as family commitments and geographical locations

In special circumstances, practitioners are willing to consult with you over the phone.