Counselling & Psychotherapy Information
How Can Counselling and Psychotherapy help?
Counselling and Psychotherapy offer the opportunity to explore issues which concern you with an experienced therapist; to help you find ways of dealing with difficult issues and circumstances and make changes to enable you to lead a more fulfilling life.
Who is it For?
Our practitioners work with individuals, with couples and occasionally with families.
What kind of issues?
People come with a broad range of issues including:
- Wanting to change unhelpful patterns of behaviour
- Difficulties at home or at work
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Bereavement/loss
- Relationship problems
- Low self esteem
- Identity problems
- Unresolved issues from the past
- Addiction
- Feeling unfulfilled
Counselling or Psychotherapy?
Whilst the terms are often used interchangeably, counselling is generally shorter term, dealing with specific issues or events that you currently find difficult. Psychotherapy is generally longer term, helping individuals to understand themselves and their patterns of behaviour; and if they wish to, to make changes.
You and your therapist will discuss what is appropriate for you.
What kind of Counselling/ Psychotherapy will be suitable for me?
Our practitioners come from different theoretical orientations, which you can read about here. Research shows that, rather than any particular modality, the most important factor in successful therapy is the relationship between therapist and client.
How do I choose a Counsellor/ Psychotherapist?
There is information about each practitioner on the website, to help you decide, and each therapist is happy to meet you for an initial consultation to explore whether to work together. If, for whatever reason, you decide not to proceed, the therapist may offer alternative suggestions.
If your availability is limited, our receptionists can advise which therapists are available at times which suit your diary.
We also offer an assessment service to provide an overview of the best therapist for the individual.
How many sessions are required?
This depends on the issues and your practitioner will be happy to discuss this. At the outset, you should expect to attend for a minimum of six sessions.
Normally, you will arrange to meet at the same time each week, though there is usually some flexibility.
Is it confidential?
Yes, with certain conditions which your therapist will explain at the first meeting.
What does it cost?
You can visit the practitioner’s individual page on this website. Alternatively, get in touch with us for the price list.
Making an appointment
Telephone The Whole Works reception or contact a practitioner direct (via their email or telephone on the practitioner’s page) to make an initial appointment to discuss your requirements.
Note: In cases where finances are restricting options for counselling The Whole Works maintains a list of centres that can offer reduced rates depending on client circumstances. The Edinburgh Counselling Agencies List website is here.
