Counsellor/Therapist

Definition of a counsellor

A counsellor is a person, who gives advice, but is non directive.

Counsellor, Life Coach and Education

A counsellor listens to a client in a confidential and private setting to explore any difficulties they are experiencing. Counselling is non judgemental and non directive.   The counselling relationship is very important in fostering trust, respect and safety.  Clients may be distressed or dissatisfied with life. Counselling allows them to express their emotions and explore ways of coping and understanding their situation.

Life Coaching involves the development of a special relationship between the coach and the client which, rather than looking to the past, plans for the future.  Coaching provides a confidential, non-judgemental, impartial and completely personalised support structure that enables individuals to achieve far more than they would “going it alone”. The coach assists their client to identify their own personal potential, clarify and achieve their goals in life. 

There are many counselling and life coaching courses available that lead to a diploma or further educational standards.  To be an accredited counsellor or life coach you will need to be qualified and accredited with a recognised professional body such as BACP the British Association of Counsellor and Pyschotherapist or the IIC the International Institute of Coaching.  At present in the UK no minimum qualifications are required to practise as a counsellor or life coach.

Written by Kate Harris

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