People decide to come to a counsellor or therapist for a wide variety of reasons. Sometimes you may feel unsure for a while. If you have never done this before, it can feel pretty strange. Or coming to therapy may be something you are unwilling to reveal to others because of shame or embarrassment - in our culture there is still some stigma attached to attending a therapist. Rest assured that your attendance will be held in confidentiality as much as your work will be.
Abuse of all kinds wounds us deeply at every level, the implications of it reverberating throughout our lives. You may feel it’s too hard or too shocking to talk about but there is no requirement to talk about anything until you are ready. This is your space and may be used at your own pace and to your own comfort level.
In recent years I have worked as the team leader for a group of people who support those with severe and enduring mental illness. Some of the people managing such challenges respond well to therapeutic support which I am happy to provide.
Many address depression, anxiety and the after effects of trauma by harming themselves, by having suicidal thoughts, and perhaps even by making attempts on their own lives. It is very important to seek help if this describes you. Help is available through counselling and therapy as well as many organisations.
We can talk about how best to find the help you need but if you need urgent assistance, let someone know now.
Call your doctor, a mental health crisis service or dial 000 and say that your life is at risk.
You can go to the local hospital emergency department for assessment, or call:
Lifeline 13 11 14 for 24hr Telephone Crisis Support
Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467
Kids Helpline 1800 551 800
