I have a caring family and friends who would do anything for me. Why would talking to a stranger help?

I am sure that you benefit greatly from this level of support, especially as they know you so well. I will only know what you choose to tell me. I am not going to judge you or your behaviour but I am not going to rescue you either.

I am going to try and see what it’s like to be you. Many young people find this liberating, as they have space to explore all their choices, without fear of judgement or upsetting people’s feelings, especially those they care for.

What type of things do people talk to you about?

Anything and everything! It really is completely up to you, but the issues I often hear about are:

• sexuality
• bullying
• exam pressure
• relationships
• self-harm
• parents
• family breakdown
• bereavement
• food/eating
• addictive behaviour

If I tell you I’m doing something my parents disapprove of, are you going to tell them?

I am not here to judge your behaviour but to give you space to explore the reasons behind it. You need to feel that it’s safe for you to talk about just about anything with me.

I will only ever breach our confidentiality if you reveal to me that you are going to seriously harm somebody or that you are in danger of serious harm yourself. If I think you’re moving into an uncertain area when we are talking, I will bring you back to the agreement we make in our first session that outlines exactly the type of things that we would need to work together in seeking help for.

I’ve got advice coming out of my ears. I don’t need any more!

Just as well, because I’m not going to give you any. I aim to give you space to explore what’s going on for you at the moment. I believe that you have all the answers and that you know what is best for you but sometimes we can’t find the time to give all the options serious thought. Counselling is all about empowerment, enabling you to take control over your choices. I am merely facilitating your process.

What if I don’t like it, my mum makes me go or it doesn’t work for me?

The only thing I ask of you is that you want to come and you find it helpful to talk to a counsellor. If you don’t want to be there, are not there voluntarily or you don’t find it helpful, then talk to the counsellor and we stop the sessions. The door will always be open if you want to come back to it.