COUNSELLING

Occurs when a counsellor meets with a client in a private and confidential setting to explore any difficulties the client may be having, distress they may be experiencing or perhaps their dissatisfaction with life, or loss of sense of direction or purpose.

There are counsellors available in all Powys GP surgeries: Cemmaes Road, Brecon, Builth Wells, Crickhowell, Knighton, Llandrindod Wells, Llanidloes, Machynlleth, Montgomery, Presteigne, Rhayader, Llanfyllin, Newtown,Welshpool and Ystradgynlais.

Coleg Powys can make arrangements for their students to see a counsellor and some larger employers such as Powys County Council also offer access to counselling for their employees.

Counselling may also be available from Community Mental Health Teams (for details, see section on CMHT Resource Centres).

PSYCHOTHERAPY

Can help you to reach a greater understanding of events that have shaped your life and of self-destructive patterns of behaviour.  Psychotherapy on the NHS is almost always accessed through the GP or Community Mental Health Team.

FINDING A COUNSELLOR OR PSYCHOTHERAPIST

There is an astounding array of counsellors and therapists offering their services privately.  There is nothing to stop anyone from setting himself or herself up as a counsellor or therapist so it is essential that you check out their qualifications and reputation.  Unfortunately, there is no governing body; but there are a number of organisations which can provide assistance in finding a reputable person within your area.

COMPLAINING

Complaining about abuse depends upon the setting of the therapy.  For NHS complaints see section on COMPLAINING.  In a private setting, the BACP has a written complaints procedure which applies to their members.  All member organisations of the UKCP are required to have a UKCP approved complaints procedure.

Regulatory bodies for offline and online counsellors, with lists of registered members:

BACP: www.bacp.co.uk
UKCP: www.psychotherapy.org.uk