Counselling Psychology

Understanding Counselling Psychology

Counselling psychology supports individuals in navigating life challenges, personal development, and emotional wellbeing. It integrates therapeutic approaches with a focus on strengths, resilience, and fostering healthy relationships.

What Is Assessed

Counselling psychologists work with clients to explore a wide range of issues, including:

Stress and adjustment to life changes
Relationship and family concerns
Grief and loss
Self-esteem and identity development

Anxiety and depression
Workplace stress and burnout
Personal growth and life transitions

What Does Counselling Psychology Involve?

Counselling psychology provides a supportive, collaborative environment to explore personal difficulties and build coping strategies.

Comprehensive History

A detailed history is gathered, focusing on emotional, relational, and situational factors impacting current wellbeing.

Strengths-Based Focus

Alongside addressing difficulties, counselling psychology highlights personal strengths and resources that can be used to foster growth.

Therapeutic Approaches: Evidence-based therapies are tailored to individual needs, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), and mindfulness-based approaches.

The Therapy Process

Initial Consultation

The process begins with a session to clarify concerns, set goals, and establish a supportive therapeutic relationship.

Ongoing Sessions

Sessions focus on exploring current challenges, developing insights, and practising new coping strategies.

Skills Development

Practical strategies are introduced to support resilience, problem-solving, and emotional regulation.

Review & Feedback

Progress is reviewed regularly to ensure therapy is meeting personal goals and to adapt approaches where needed.

Areas of Focus

Counselling psychologists often assist with:

Life Transitions

Adjusting to new roles, career changes, or family dynamics

Relationships

Strengthening communication, intimacy, and conflict resolution

Personal Growth

Building self-confidence and exploring identity

Stress & Burnout

Strategies for coping with workplace or academic stress

Grief & Loss

Supporting adjustment to bereavement or significant changes

Emotional Wellbeing

Developing emotional regulation and coping strategies

Important Information

Session Duration

Sessions generally last 50–60 minutes. The number of sessions depends on individual needs and therapy goals.

Confidentiality

Counselling psychologists provide a safe, confidential environment to discuss personal concerns.

Collaborative Care

Where appropriate, counselling psychologists may work alongside GPs, schools, or other support services to ensure holistic care.