COUNSELLING AND PSYCHOTHERAPY
Changes in life can leave us feeling overwhelmed and looking for ways to cope with our circumstances. It is at these times that we may benefit from professional support in the form of counselling and psychotherapy to help us try and make sense of what seems challenging to live with or understand at that time. Our highly experienced team can help you to move beyond issues that are holding you back from a life lived with greater meaning and freedom.
They can help you explore and work through issues such as:
- Eating disorders (including, but not limited to, bulimia, anorexia nervosa, binge eating, other specified feeding or eating disorders)
- Stress/Anxiety
- Addictions
- Co-dependency
- Low self-esteem
- Relationships
- Bereavement
- Abuse
- Trauma
- Self-harm
What is the difference between psychotherapy and counselling?
People have questions regarding what is involved in counselling and psychotherapy.They are similar in that they both involve talking in a confidential space when you can gain support in dealing with emotional challenges they may be facing. Often counselling is shorter term than psychotherapy and may focus on current specific issues. Psychotherapy is often longer-term and include looking at early life experiences and how they may be unconsciously impacting the present. At The Surrey Centre, both approaches are used to address multiple issues including anorexia nervosa, bulimia, binge eating, other specified feeding or eating disorders,) anxiety and low self-esteem.
If in doubt we are happy to discuss the best approach for you.
Psychotherapy
Normally, psychotherapy explores at depth psychological difficulties that are presented in the therapeutic relationship. There is a consistent long term relationship between the therapist and patient which in itself becomes meaningful and can help the patient as part of the psychological work that needs to be done.
Counselling
Counselling can focus on a ‘single issue’ for example, anxiety or low self-esteem. It could be work-related or an issue in a relationship. Counselling can sometimes be time limited where goals may be set as part of the counselling work.
It is important to discuss during your assessment whether counselling or psychotherapy is for you.
How do I make an appointment?
If you feel that counselling or psychotherapy might help you, then contact the service to make an initial assessment appointment. This will be a time for you to talk about your current difficulties and some of the underlying causes.
The Surrey Centre for Eating Disorders services
Dietetic Services
The Surrey Centre’s Nutrition Philosophy is based on nutrition and a healthy relationship with food thereby promoting a balanced diet as part of a healthy lifestyle.
One to One Therapy
At The Surrey Centre we use an integrated method of therapy, drawing on different therapeutic approaches and adapting them to meet individual clients needs.
Family Therapy
At The Surrey Centre, we are able to work together with partners, parents, siblings and children helping them understand how to help their loved one. When appropriate we invite the whole family to participate in sessions when feelings and experiences can be shared
Family Education And Support Programme
We understand that it is not only the individual with an eating disorder that needs support and that, often, a wider impact is felt by the whole family. We have put together a Family Education Programme offering a range of practical, dietetic help and advice alongside counselling and emotional support.
Assessment
As a first step we recommend you come for an assessment. You will be guided through the process by one of our therapists. During the assessment you will have a chance to get a feel for how we work, time to tell us your story, to explain to us what you hope to gain from therapy and what your reservations might be.
Referrals to The Surrey Centre
Referrals to The Surrey Centre for Counselling & Psychotherapy can be made via self referral, GP, Consultant Psychiatrist/Psychologist, Psychotherapist/Counsellor or other appropriate professional.
Psychiatric Services
If you are referred to The Surrey Centre by a psychiatrist we will, with your agreement, work closely with them to ensure you receive a complete package of care. For some of our clients meeting the team at The Surrey Centre is the first point of contact. If at any point we feel the support of a Psychiatrist would be beneficial we will recommend this to you.