Having counselling remotely via phone or video call

Having counselling remotely via phone or video call

Over the next weeks and months we will be highlighting some of the specific services that are offered at Rainbow Counselling, in addition to usual one-to-one therapy. (N.B. Check out Jane’s blog post from April which describes some more about how Coaching can help you).

Having counselling remotely via phone or video callThis week we are looking at remote counselling, which might take place over the phone or via a platform such as Zoom or Skype. We are becoming all too familiar these days with remote ways of working and fortunately counselling can work remotely too, offering real benefits in terms of flexibility especially. Remote counselling may also suit you if mobility is an issue and getting out of the house can pose a challenge.

We wanted to highlight a few extra considerations to bear in mind when speaking with your counsellor remotely, perhaps some things you may not have considered. Think about whether you might be overheard and how you can minimise the chances of this. Be aware that strong thoughts and emotions can be stirred by counselling and this can be a strange experience in your own home, without the special trip out you might normally take to see your counsellor. Consider ‘rituals’ to end the session for yourself such as jotting down your reflections or doing some stretches.

Finding what works for you can mean that you can really make the most of what remote counselling has to offer. And of course, don’t forget to charge up that device in advance!! For more info please visit our: Remote Counselling Service page >

Remember support is out there! You are not alone. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with one of our counsellors today.

Campaigning for mental health support following Coronavirus

Campaigning for mental health support following Coronavirus

The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) in conjunction with 25 professional partners and supported by a host of professionals in the mental health field, has spearheaded a campaign for urgent mental health care as the impact of the coronavirus and lockdown takes its toll on our country.

BACP’s CEO, Haydn Williams reports on the progressing campaign: “Through our campaign we’ve already secured excellent support and buy-in from politicians across the parliaments of the four nations.”

Many will be aware that because of this current climate demand for mental health services will be increasing, not least because of the impact of greater loneliness, grief, sickness and loss of income to name just a few issues.

Check out BACP’s news articles on their website to find out more about how the campaign has been progressing over the last few weeks, since it was first launched in the early days of lockdown. And if you are a mental health professional you can follow the links to add your voice to the campaign by writing to your MP >

Read more from BACP >

Related Mental Health Article:

Proud to be supporting our frontline workers

Proud to be supporting our frontline workers

Proud to be supporting our frontline workers

Proud to be supporting our frontline workersOne of our counsellors, Helen, has been involved in this great initiative to support frontline NHS workers during the Covid-19 pandemic by offering free counselling online.

Helen says: “I feel so very privileged to be able to help the NHS during this time of need. Using my counselling skills to help and support the NHS staff who are working so tirelessly and with such dedication to care for others, is both humbling and an inspiration and I feel so very blessed to be part of this frontline service.”

The Points of Light Service has itself been commended by the Prime Minister, with its founders receiving a personal letter of thanks from the PM. Check out their full article here, where you can also find out more about Points of Light. Read more>

Rainbow Counselling are also pleased to offer 4 sessions of half price counselling to all NHS frontline workers during the Covid-19 pandemic. Please contact us to be put in touch with a counsellor today.

Being there for a loved one with anxiety

Being there for a loved one with anxiety

Whether you have been loving or loathing lockdown one thing’s for certain – for many people it has raised anxiety about many things: money, job security and health to name a few.

Online Counselling Services at Rainbow, SheffieldPerhaps you are feeling anxious on behalf of someone else – a family member whose job is at risk, a single friend who is living alone and isolated or an elderly parent with pre-existing health issues.

This helpful article by the rTMS Centre highlights some ways you can help someone who is experiencing anxiety. Being there for them in a non-pressurised way and distracting them with other helpful things may support them in this phase of their journey.

Also important in these times (and always) is the importance of self care. The article reminds us that key to supporting someone is to be aware of our own boundaries and limits so that we can realistically offer something that is concrete and sustainable. Read more about the article at the rTMS Centre >

Remember support is out there! You are not alone. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with one of our counsellors today.

Feeling suicidal during these anxious times?

Feeling suicidal during these anxious times?

There are many added reasons why these times we have been living in are so difficult – increased isolation, ill health, money worries and uncertainty over when it is all going to end to name a few.

feeling suicidal, get help and support from Rainbow Counselling ServicesWhilst for some these may be minor issues, for others they might be catastrophic, life-altering and/or contribute to increased thoughts of suicide.

Living with suicidal thoughts can be a very lonely place and many will testify that talking about these thoughts with a trusted friend or trained professional can really help. This article also offers some helpful advice, in addition to suggested telephone helplines at the end, for those who may be feeling suicidal.

Remember support is out there for you! You are not alone. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with one of our counsellors today.

Read more on this related topic from Patient Info:
What to do if you feel suicidal during the coronavirus lockdown >

The Samaritans – support available 24/7. Visit their website: www.samaritans.org or call 116 123 FREE.