Working through anxiety and depression

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

No matter how I felt or what I said in sessions, 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 thoughtfully and empathetically, always checking she'd understood what I was saying. I felt heard and understood.

Shelley helped me gain a lot of understanding of myself and my relationships, and built my confidence and self-esteem by being supportive 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 our sessions I started getting the bus on my own for the first time in ages, began 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 I'd buried and thought I could never talk about; it was a huge weight off my shoulders, and afterwards I felt differently. Through talking to Shelley, I changed the way I viewed myself for the better.

I'm definitely living better now. I've stopped having panic attacks and self-harming, my family relationships have improved a lot, and I feel more confident with better self-esteem. It helped my recovery so much, it was definitely a worthwhile investment. I'd recommend counselling to anyone who wants to talk in a completely safe and confidential environment.