The terms “counselling” and “psychotherapy” are often used interchangeably. There are many similarities between counselling and psychotherapy, and even with the distinction, counselling often includes some psychotherapy and psychotherapy often includes some counselling.
Both counsellors and psychotherapists do not need to have medical training. Professions in counselling and psychotherapy involve comprehending a person’s perceptions and behaviors and offering appropriate solutions. Both fields address the issues faced by individuals of all ages, from children to adults and the elderly, by analyzing their specific problems.
Nonetheless, counselling is a short-term treatment, wherein Psychotherapy is long-term. Counselling usually resolves the present issues of the person, on a conscious level. On the contrary, psychotherapy involves finding the root cause of the issue, to get over the underlying problems effectively, in order to make things clear and better.
How do I know if I need counselling or psychotherapy?
It can be difficult to work out whether counselling or psychotherapy is right for you. If you are considering the question, then it may be that you are in a period of distress. You may be undergoing life change, divorce, bereavement or are struggling with stress, anxiety or depression, for example.
If you believe that your issue requires a more present-based intervention – meaning that it is an isolated experience and not something that relates to the past or is a repeating pattern in your life, then a period of counselling may be sufficient for you.
However, psychotherapy would most likely be better suited to you, if you are concerned about how your past experience affects your present life. This also encompasses your desire to address the deeper roots of unhealthy ways of thinking and behaving, and look at how you relate to self and others.
And if you have a history of mental health problems, or a diagnosis, then psychotherapy would be the advisable route to take.
What other factors are important in choosing a counsellor or psychotherapist?
When choosing a counsellor or psychotherapist it is important to not only consider how they present themselves, but also evaluate whether they are truly able to work to the standard that the say they are. At the first appointment, this is a time and place for you to ask appropriate questions. This will enable you to make an informed decision about whether to embark on this important relationship.
All counsellors or psychotherapists should be members of a recognised profession body. This signifies that the therapist has completed an approved training programme. The therapist is also accountable for upholding the professional ethics of the organisation.
The Singapore Association of Counselling (SAC) is the professional body representing counsellors and psychotherapists in Singapore. SAC requires a registered counsellor to undergo continuous professional development. The therapist is also obligated to participate in clinical supervision, where a supervisor oversees their clinical work. This is to ensure that the therapist is working ethically and constructively with each client.
Lastly, it is essential that you ‘feel’ whether you can work with the counsellor or psychotherapist sat in front of you. It is important to have the elements of safety, respect, encouragement, understanding and confidentiality in the therapeutic relationship.
Summary
Ultimately, the first step is always the hardest. But once you have made contact, you will quickly find out if this is someone you feel comfortable with. Trust your feelings and remember you the client should always have a choice.
And we are all capable of being brave for a moment.
You are also always welcome to contact me to see if I might be able to support you as you journey forward.