What is Counselling?
Counselling is a supportive process where you can explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences in a confidential and non-judgmental space. The goal is to help you better understand yourself, develop coping strategies and work through any challenges or issues you are facing.
How Does it Work?
Try Freedom counselling sessions last 55 minutes, which is typical. Initially they occur regularly (weekly or bi-weekly). In these sessions, you can talk openly about your concerns. The counsellor will listen, ask questions and offer insights to help you gain clarity. They won’t tell you what to do but will guide you towards making your own decisions. Some clients have regular sessions for a few weeks, some for months and some for a year or more. After the initial period of regular sessions, there is usually a maintenance period where sessions are held less frequently, say every quarter or twice per year.
Scope of Intuitive Eating Therapy
Intuitive eating is an approach to eating that focuses on listening to your body’s natural hunger and fullness cues rather than following external diet rules. While it can promote a healthier relationship with food and body image, it is not a treatment for eating disorders or other mental health conditions. Eating disorders, such as anorexia or bulimia, require specialised treatment that addresses the complex psychological, emotional and medical aspects of these conditions. Intuitive eating might be a part of recovery for some, but it should not replace professional therapy, medical intervention or structured treatment plans designed specifically for eating disorders or mental health conditions. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure that any approach to eating aligns with your overall mental health needs.
What is Expected of You?
As the client, your active participation is crucial. Be open and honest about your feelings and thoughts, even if it feels uncomfortable. Trust in the process, and remember that change takes time. It’s also important to attend sessions consistently and communicate openly with your counsellor about any concerns or needs you might have. The information covered in session is designed to be implemented during the time between sessions as in “homework.” Obviously it is your choice whether to carry out this practice, however, without application in real time to your emotion and behaviour, limited progress can be made. You will not be judged based on how much or little of the homework you complete.
Addressing Your Concerns
If you have a concern about your treatment during counselling, it’s important to address it directly with your counsellor. You can bring up your concern during a session by expressing how you feel about a specific aspect of the counselling process, whether it’s about the approach, the pace or anything that makes you uncomfortable. Your counsellor is there to support you, and part of that support includes being open to feedback. If discussing it in person feels challenging, you might consider writing down your thoughts and sharing them with your counsellor via email or bringing the notes to your next session. Remember, addressing concerns is a positive step towards ensuring that your counselling experience is as helpful and comfortable as possible.
Medical Screening
Before beginning a counselling relationship, a medical screening is conducted to gather important information about your mental and physical health. This screening helps the counsellor understand any medical conditions, medications or previous mental health diagnoses that could influence your treatment. The process typically involves completing a questionnaire or discussing your health history during an initial consultation. This information is vital for tailoring the counselling approach to your specific needs, ensuring that any underlying health issues are considered. It also helps the counsellor identify if additional support, such as a referral to a medical professional, might be necessary. This step ensures that your counselling journey is safe, effective and aligned with your overall well-being.
Confidentiality
Everything discussed in counselling is confidential, with few exceptions (such as risk of harm to yourself or others). This ensures a safe environment where you can express yourself freely.
Counselling is a collaborative effort aimed at helping you achieve your personal goals and well-being.
Take Action Now
To book your free initial consultation to see if counselling could help you normalise your appetite, or contact Alison at Try Freedom now.
