Working through anxiety and depression

What issues were you facing?

Before I started counselling I was very anxious and depressed. I had frequent panic attacks and was self-harming. I felt confused, lost, and ashamed.

How did counselling help?

No matter how I felt or what I said in the session, Shelley was always kind, accepting, and understanding. If I struggled to find the words, she was patient and encouraging; whatever I shared, she never judged me, and she responded in a thoughtful and empathetic way. She always checked she had understood what I was saying and helped me make sense of what I was going through. I felt heard and understood by Shelley.

Shelley helped me gain a lot of understanding of myself and my relationships. She helped build my confidence and self-esteem by being supportive and encouraging of me, and reminding me of my achievements. When I started counselling, I couldn't leave the house alone, I was isolated and debilitated by anxiety. Over the course of the sessions I started getting the bus on my own for the first time in ages, started volunteering, and went on a college course. Shelley helped me manage difficult emotions and express myself in a healthier way.

I learned a lot about what brings on my anxiety and panic attacks and why. We spoke about things that had been buried, that I thought I could never talk about, it was a huge weight off my shoulders and after talking about them, I felt differently. Through talking to Shelley, I changed the way I viewed myself for the better.

How has life been after counselling?

I am definitely living better now, I've stopped having panic attacks and self-harming, and my family relationships have improved a lot. I feel more confident and have better self-esteem.

What would you say to those concerned about the cost?

It helped me with my recovery so much, it was definitely a worthwhile investment.

Would you recommend counselling?

I would recommend counselling to anyone who wants to talk in a completely safe and confidential environment.