Frequently Asked Questions



Why is Counselling different than talking to a friend?

At times we all need someone to talk to, but it's not always possible to find that support amongst friends, family or colleagues as they are unable or unwilling to listen. Sometimes its difficult to completely be yourself with friends in case they think you're soft, stupid or just plain crazy. Modern living has probably taught you to hide your problems so if you have been bullied or abused you may remain fearful or blame yourself, finding it difficult to be open about your experiences, burying your thoughts and feelings deep inside in the hope that they may go away. When they don't it may be causing feelings of guilt, shame, anger, sadness or depression. You may keep finding yourself in the same old situations that cause you pain. You may be struggling with an addiction, an eating disorder or alcoholism that only serve to keep you in denial about those banished feelings.

You may have suffered a loss or bereavement and feel that you are alone, it may be that the way your family and friends deal with loss is not the right way for you so you may feel unable to say all the things you want to say. A Counsellor can be there for you at these times.

What happens during the Counselling session?

Counselling is often referred to as 'the talking therapy', the benefits of which are proven and recognised in helping people through suffering or times of crisis. Counselling and Therapy are frameworks describing the support offered in a private and confidential environment where you can explore your emotional and personal difficulties, allowing closer investigation of any issues that are causing you distress. It is not a failure to ask for help, it is a huge step, one that takes great courage, but it is a positive one

Counsellors are trained listeners, able to help you explore any difficulties you may be experiencing, such as: dissatisfaction with life, distress caused by physical, emotional or relationship difficulties. You may have a specific issue that needs resolving, or maybe seeing the problem from a different perspective could help.

Who needs to know that I am seeing a Counsellor?

It is entirely up to you who you tell. In order to feel supported it may be that you wish someone close to you to know, a partner, a friend, a family member. You may consider discussing this with your GP, especially if you are on, or are considering taking medication.

In the first session I will ask you to provide me with your GP's contact details, but I will only use this information in accordance with my professional Code of Ethics and Practice (see BACP website link on homepage)

How many sessions will I need to have?

This entirely depends on you and what you want to focus on. It may be that you find youself in a crisis so just a few sessions will be enough to help you find your way through.

The process usually begins with six sessions, but it can last for longer, sometimes up to a year or more.

What is the Counsellor's role in the relationship?

The quality of the therapeutic relationship is the single most important part of the counselling process. People can often feel a deep connection to their Counsellor, sometimes this can feel a little frightening, but it is also empowering. The main thing to remind yourself of is that the Counsellor's role is one of guide, there to help you discover, explore and understand parts of yourself that have been hidden from your conscious thinking.

My aim is not to give advice or offer solutions, but to endeavour to understand you as a separate individual, offering you one to one support throughout your journey of discovery. I will not judge you, but use my experience and empathy to help you find your own way through, talking with you, helping you uncover your own solutions. I believe you possess inner strengths and resources which can lead you to find your own path to a more fulfilling life and a fuller sense of self-worth. My role will be to offer you the time and support to discover what you already intuitively know.


Contact Sonia Yeandle at The Consulting Room on

Tele:01273 203098
Mob:07716 198729
e.mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

now to discuss how you can gain a clearer understanding of how counselling may help you.

Useful Links:

CPD Workshops
Yahoo
Tantaras Wish
BACP
Counselling Directory
Homeopathy
Local Information
Bereavement
Brighton Biz Directory