Critical Qualities of Professional Counselling Services

According to research, about 1 in 5 Australians suffered from a mental condition in 2018. Despite the disturbing figures, many people are still shying away from seeking counselling services. It can be attributed to various factors, including misinformation about counselling, denial and bad experiences with previous counsellors. Therefore, if you are a friend, a parent, a guardian or a partner to someone suffering from mental health conditions, you should encourage them to seek professional help. However, what constitutes effective counselling services? Remember that your choice determines the quality of counselling services a patient receives. This post highlights essential attributes to look for in a counselling service provider.

Confidentiality 

It is improbable that someone with mental health issues will discuss their problems with friends, family or workmates. It stems from the fear of having to deal with people's sympathetic stares and small talk. Thus, patients often prefer to keep their issues to themselves rather than talk about them. The good news is that patients suffering from mental problems readily open up when sure that whatever they talk about will be handled confidentially. Therefore, when looking for counselling services for a loved one, ensure that the professionals have a solid history of keeping patient discussions confidential. It means that counselling services must be offered individually and privately.

Flexibility 

Since counselling services are designed to help mental health patients, flexibility is essential. Therefore, professional counsellors must adapt their services to meet patients' needs. It goes a long way in ensuring that a counsellor and a client maintain a healthy and therapeutic relationship throughout a treatment period. For instance, if a patient walks into a counselling room and says that they feel distracted by the paintings on the walls, a counsellor should take the images down. Flexibility is essential to patients since it makes them comfortable and increases the chances of opening up for effective treatment.

Non-Judgmental 

Nobody likes to be judged even if they are in the wrong. Mental health patients are no different, and judgmental counsellors do not make treatment easy. Of course, you are less likely to find a judgmental professional counsellor, but it does not mean that you should not conduct due diligence. Therefore, only settle for counselling services whose workers respect patients and avoid imposing their values, attitudes and beliefs. Even if a counsellor disagrees with a patient, the last thing they should do is assert their personal opinions during treatment sessions.

Contact a local counselling service to get started.

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