The Guiding Principles of My Counselling

The foundation of effective counselling is a strong therapeutic relationship built upon trust, compassion and safety. My utmost commitment is providing that nurturing space for you. Below I outline the guiding principles at the core of my counselling practice so you understand the care and support I offer. My goal is to empower you on your journey with clarity, empathy and hard-won wisdom from walking alongside others through life’s challenges.

My Commitment to You

Building a foundation of trust is vital for effective counselling. That’s why I make the following wholehearted commitments to provide a safe, understanding space that supports your healing and growth by:

• Active listening – I commit to fully listening to you with patience and compassion. Your story is important and will be heard.
• Judgement-free space – I commit to providing a safe, confidential environment free of judgement or assumptions. You can share openly and be your authentic self.
• Respect – I commit to respecting your experiences, values and goals. Your needs and priorities will guide our work together.
• Collaboration – I commit to a collaborative partnership where your voice is equal. We will work as a team to set the agenda.
• Accountability – I commit to taking accountability for my words and actions. I will acknowledge my limitations and continue learning.
• Boundaries – I commit to maintaining clear, ethical boundaries to protect our counselling relationship.
• Support – I commit to encouraging and empowering you through life’s challenges. You are not alone in this process.
• Mindfulness – I commit to embodying mindfulness, presence and care in each session we share. You have my full attention.
• Growth – I commit to tailoring my approach to nurture your personal growth, self-awareness and healing.
• Progress – I commit to regularly reviewing our progress to ensure you keep moving forward in a meaningful way.

My goal is to provide a caring, safe space for you to process, learn and grow. I’m fully dedicated to this journey with you.

Your Commitments to Counselling

While I’m dedicated to guiding you, counselling is most effective as a collaborative process. Here are some ways you can participate to get the most from our work together:

• Openness – I commit to being open and honest in our sessions. I will share my story, thoughts, and feelings to the best of my ability.
• Engagement – I commit to fully engaging in the counselling process with curiosity and reflection. I will apply effort towards my growth between sessions.
• Respect – I commit to respecting your professional expertise, perspective and methods. I understand you have my best interests in mind.
• Setting goals – I commit to articulating my goals and aspirations. My vision for positive change will help guide our work.
• Feedback – I commit to providing feedback on what’s working well and what adjustments may help me. Our partnership can then evolve.
• Commitment – I commit to consistently attending and participating in our scheduled sessions. I recognize consistency is crucial.
• Self-care – I commit to practicing positive self-care like healthy habits, relationships, and mindfulness.
• Openness to change – I commit to challenging myself with new perspectives and skills that may feel uncomfortable initially.
• Patience – I commit to being patient with myself and the sometimes slow process of growth and healing.
• Courage – I commit to finding the courage to be vulnerable, face fears, and transform pain into wisdom.

I’m ready to do this vital inner work with your guidance. Thank you for supporting me on my journey of self-discovery and wholeness.