Counselling is for everyone and people attend counselling for a variety of reasons. Sometimes it is to deal with long-standing issues such as anxiety or depression. Other times it is in response to unexpected changes, work related stress, relationship breakup, job loss or work transition etc. People can also seek counselling to work on changing harmful behaviours and thoughts or to gain better awareness of themselves. Some of the common problems where people seek counselling are mood and emotional problems, anxiety and worries, grief, relationship issues, work related stress, addiction and other behavioural problems, decision making or adjustment issues, and etc.
Many seek the support of counselling as they pursue their own personal exploration and growth. Counselling is beneficial for anyone interested in getting the most out of their life by taking responsibility, creating greater self-awareness and working towards change in their lives using models of psychotherapy such as CBT, reflective practice, self-awareness and etc.
However, anyone below 18 years old is required to obtain consent from their primary caregivers (parents and/or guardian) before the initiation of counselling. Caregivers would usually be approached to share relevant information related to the client’s problem. The client or caregivers may also be asked to discuss their goals in counselling as well as the tentative treatment plan. Counselling goals and treatment plan may be modified or refined as the therapeutic process develops.
