Counselling is a type of talking therapy that allows a person to talk about their problems and feelings in a confidential and safe space. A counsellor is trained to listen with empathy (by putting themselves in your shoes). They can help you deal with any negative thoughts and feelings you have.

Sometimes the term "counselling" is used to refer to talking therapies in general, but counselling is also a type of therapy in its own right.

Other psychological therapies include psychotherapy, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), couples therapy and relationship therapy, which could be between members of a family, a couple, or work colleagues.

Counsellors will not give advice or tell you what to do, instead a counsellor can offer other options and help you to make a suitable choice that feels right for you.
 

Counselling can help you:
 

• cope with a bereavement or relationship breakdown

• cope with redundancy or work-related stress

• explore issues such as sexual identity

• deal with issues preventing you achieving your ambitions

• deal with feelings of depression or sadness

• deal with feelings of anxiety, helping you worry less about things 

• understand yourself and your problems better

• feel more confident

• develop a better understanding of other people's points of view

• explore your thoughts, behaviours and emotions