Clients generally see a Counsellor because it’s some form of change that they would like to achieve.
Ultimately, in most cases seeing a Counsellor is all about change, however, it’s worth remembering the rather corny old Counsellor joke first…
How many Counsellors does it take to change a lightbulb? Just one, but the bulb really has to want to change!
Essentially, there are three things we can all change (if we want to):
- Our thoughts
- Our feelings
- Our environment
And there are three truths about change:
No one can do it for you
It’s important to be open to change as it’s the palm tree that bends and survives the cyclone.
Helping clients through the change process is where a Counsellor can be an invaluable resource and support.
But what if you feel you don’t need to change, someone or something else needs to change instead?
Well, if you’ve come along to a Counsellor you may not really believe what you’re saying.
Alternatively, if someone has suggested or encouraged you to attend, they might not agree!
The first thing in many situations is to identify what has happened previously, what the results were and where improvements might be made.
Then, after looking back, that brings us to the next truth about change…
Change can ONLY happen in the now
No one can change the past.
We cannot do anything at all about what has already happened, even something just one minute ago is now gone.
But, what we have complete power over is the now and what we do into the future.
Having an attainable goal or definable achievement can be great assistance in the change process, so don’t be afraid to have a dream or a target.
We live in a society of change
Not only is our natural world always changing (seasons, weather etc.), so too are humans.
Just think, there’s countless universities, gyms, TV makeover shows, plastic surgery…the list goes on and on!
So, if we can change so much about our lives, even our appearance, why can’t we change within?
As a Holistic Counsellor, I will be trying to get a good handle on the different elements of your life and I often use the Maslow Hierarchy of Needs to help with this.
This focus includes:
- Your environment
- Your outlets and interests
- Your general physical wellbeing
- Your support networks and strengths
- Your emotional wellbeing
While I often teach Transactional Analysis (TA) skills that can be of great assistance in improving and changing communication skills.
If personal change is on your agenda and you’re looking for a little help along the way, I hope you come and see me.
Either way, remember, all change starts with individual change.
