Page 2 Leaflet for people with learning disabilities wanting to access counselling services in Taunton Somerset

1. What is counselling?
Counselling is a talking therapy.
The person you talk to is called a counsellor.
They are trained to listen and support you.
They offer a safe and regular place to talk about difficult
feelings that may be painful, uncomfortable or confusing.
You can talk to them about anything.
The counsellor can help you understand your feelings
and emotions and together find positive solutions.
You and your counsellor
Feeling comfortable and safe with your counsellor is
very important for the process to work.
They care about you and want what is best for you.
Your relationship with your counsellor is different to
that of a friend, family member or support worker.
They will not tell you what to do, criticise or judge you.
Trust
Your counsellor will not tell anyone else what you talk
about unless they are worried about the safety of you
or someone else.
What to expect
Your counsellor will offer a safe and welcoming space
for you to talk about negative thoughts and feelings.
Sometimes you may feel upset, angry or sad – your
counsellor will support you through this.
It may take a few sessions before counselling starts to
make a difference.
Some people see their counsellor once a week, at a set
time, but you can agree a routine that is right for you.
Sessions are usually 50 minutes but times can be
arranged to suit you.
Your carer can attend your first meeting if this makes
you feel more comfortable.
Counselling can help you with:
• Abuse • Family issues
• Anger • Low self-confidence
• Anxiety • Low self-esteem
• Bereavement • Relationship issues
• Bullying • Self harm
• Depression • Stress
• Fear • Suicidal thoughts
Counselling can help you feel less stressed and less
anxious and therefore more confident and in control
of your life, so you can have better relationships with
family and friends.
50 mins