Some of the most common areas and problems addressed by the clinical psychologist and career counselors:
Abuse |
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Abuse is a general term used to describe the maltreatment of an individual by another person. The three main forms of abuse are sexual, physical and emotional. It can affect anyone, male or female, old or young. Physical abuse usually involves one person causing an injury to another through slapping, hitting, kicking or by the use of an object/weapon. Emotional abuse is another widespread but seldom-reported type of abuse. It includes behavior such as verbal criticism, disapproval or intimidation intended to diminish an individual's feelings of self-confidence and self-worth. Whatever the form of abuse that takes place, the effects can be far reaching and may cause feelings of confusion, depression and aggression. Below you'll find a list of abuse counseling services and organizations that provide support for past and current victims. |
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Adolescence |
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Adolescence is a stage that involves the transition from childhood to adulthood, in which considerable physical and mental changes take place. It usually occurs between the ages of 10 and 19 years. Physical change that occurs during this time is known as puberty. Because of puberty, teenagers may often feel over-sensitive and lack self-confidence as they come to terms with the changes they are going through. Mood swings and shyness are some of the most common features associated with adolescence. It is a period of vulnerability for the teenager, which requires support and understanding. Teenagers often find their independence by making friends and widening their social circle. As they begin to carve out an identity, they become more susceptible to their friend's influences. In general this is a healthy process that enables the teenager to find a niche outside of the family environment. But occasionally peer pressure may lead to situations that need parental or professional guidance. |
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Anger |
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Anger is an emotion felt by everyone at some time or other. As a response to dispute or conflict, it is a natural defense against perceived threats and can vary in intensity. Although many people are able to express their anger in non-threatening ways, some find it difficult to keep their emotions in check. In extreme cases anger may cause an individual to lash out or behave in an intimidating or aggressive manner. Among other things, anger can often result in alienation and have damaging effects on personal relationships. |
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Bereavement |
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Bereavement is part of a natural process that occurs when someone loses a family member or close friend, and can effect people in different ways. Some experience intense anguish, while others may not exhibit their grief in the conventional sense. While the initial reaction can last up to 12 months, there are a number of stages that the bereaved may go through. These may include disbelief, mental pain and guilt. However, these symptoms may vary according to circumstances, such as the age of the person who has died and the manner of their death (sudden or expected). In addition grief can sometimes lead to depression. If this happens the support of family and friends can be very important. It may also be a good idea to seek counseling in severe cases. |
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Bullying |
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Bullying affects people of all ages. It usually involves an individual subjecting another person to physical or verbal harassment. Child bullying can take the form of name-calling, physical intimidation or assault. It can have serious effects on a young person and has the potential to cause intense unhappiness. It may also induce feelings of inadequacy, shame, powerlessness and low self-esteem. Adult bullying, particularly in the workplace is equally prevalent but less reported. Examples of workplace bullying include humiliation, put-downs, unfair treatment, verbal abuse or the repeated allocation of excessive workloads. It may cause depression, lead to increased stress levels and be the cause of considerable anxiety for the victim. There are many reasons why people bully or harass others including feelings of inadequacy or jealousy. Regardless of cause, bullies usually tend to victimize people who they see as vulnerable, easy targets. |
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Anxiety |
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Anxiety is a natural reaction to stressful situations and is felt by all people at certain points in their lives. In some cases it occurs without an apparent cause, but can also be linked to mental disorders such as depression or alcohol misuse. Anxiety can manifest itself both physically and psychologically. Physical symptoms include stomach pain, a quick heart-rate, shortness of breath and a dry mouth. Irritability, anger or poor concentration is also symptomatic of the condition. If a person experiences some of these reactions without a recognizable cause, it may be due to an Anxiety Disorder. There are five main types of AD: Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Panic Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Social Phobia. |
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Depression |
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Depression is an illness that has the potential to cause persistent unhappiness and distress. Sufferers may experience a wide range of negative feelings such as hopelessness, loss of confidence or feelings of guilt. Depression may also manifest itself in other ways. For example, a person may try to avoid others or lose motivation for work or school. In some cases they might experience suicidal tendencies. Depression can be triggered by upsetting experiences such as a bereavement, relationship breakdown or unemployment. It has the potential to effect anyone, although certain people are more susceptible than others. Registered charity Sane suggest that 1 in 6 people will suffer from depression at some stage in their lives. Although depression counselling can help people to work through their problems, in more serious cases the advice of a GP should be sought. To receive help, it is very important that the sufferer recognises that they have a problem. This can be quite challenging, especially for men who may see depression as a sign of weakness - this may explain why the majority of people who report the condition are women. There are plenty of resources available for help in coping with depression. |
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Divorce |
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Divorce is the legal dissolution of a marriage and is a painful experience for all concerned. It can be caused by a number of factors and is sometimes the only choice for two people experiencing extreme marriage difficulties. It is becoming increasingly prevalent and unfortunately is often begun by people who are totally unprepared for the consequences. The process of divorce can have particularly damaging effects on children. Counselors therefore place emphasis on the relationship between estranged parents, encouraging mutual support and respect in order to provide any children involved with the stability that a harmonious parental partnership would bring. |
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Family issues |
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All families experience problems and face challenges at some time or another. Issues such as illness and bereavement can be the cause of a great deal of pressure and may lead to strained relations. Family counseling can sometimes be useful in helping people to cope with life-changing events and in improve their interaction with other members. Divorce and illness are problems that are frequently addressed by family counselors. They can bring about significant changes that can have a major impact on all concerned. Therefore help is sometimes needed to help families face challenging periods and confront difficult situations as a single, cohesive unit. Trained family counselors can provide guidance for families experiencing difficult times. In some cases professional help can prove very useful in solving or alleviating common problems. Sessions are generally conducted for both individual members and the family as a whole. |
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Marriage counseling |
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Most couples experience periods of difficulty during a marriage. Debt, illness or infidelity can put significant strain on marital life and sometimes cause separation or divorce. Poor communication can also be problematic, preventing a couple from discussing and solving contentious issues. This is where marriage counseling might prove helpful. Marriage counselors attempt to improve the interaction between couples by developing listening, problem-solving and communicative skills. They also provide people with the opportunity to voice their frustrations in an environment conducive to expression. Approaches to marriage counseling vary - some practitioners meet people individually while others prefer to work with both husband and wife together. |
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Relationship problems |
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Most relationships are subjected to pressures at some time or another. Factors such as money, work and health can all play a part in creating issues that may cause strain. In addition, couples may encounter situations that require important, possibly life-changing decisions such as marriage or family planning. Couple counseling is not always sought as a means of repairing a relationship. However, it is often very effective at helping people to maintain lasting relationships as well as correcting negative behavior patterns that cause problems. |
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Stress |
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Stress can have both positive and negative influences. If channeled correctly it can help with motivation, enabling a person to meet challenges or confront problems. However, negative stress also has the potential to effect people’s physical and mental health. Eustress, acute and chronic stress are some of the most common types. Eustress is a positive and productive form, capable of improving motivation as well as providing inspiration in certain instances. Acute distress is a short-term reaction to certain stressful events like road rage, while chronic stress occurs more frequently and may seem to be a regular feature of a person's life. Stress management counseling is often useful at assisting people in limiting the negative effects of stress, as well as preventing physical or mental problems. It can help people to recognize the major causes of stress in their life and make changes that will help them to react less to stressful situations. |
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Problems of students |
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Although commencing a degree can be an exciting time for some, it can also be a daunting prospect for others. In some cases students have to move away from home in order to attend their chosen course, which may require a period of adjustment. This can be a difficult transition, for a young person, as they get used to new-found independence and a new way of life. Counselors are there for students to discuss any problem they might have. Some of the most common issues include homesickness, exams worries, and concerns about presentations/course work, relationship problems and loneliness. Counseling is usually on a short-term basis although further help may be recommended, depending on the seriousness of the issue. Graduates and school leavers can also benefit from careers advice counseling. University graduates sometimes need help in finding jobs to match their skills, while school leavers may need help in plotting their career path. |
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Career issues |
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Careers counselors aim to increase an individual's chances of finding their desired job by improving their CVs and interview techniques. A variety of aptitude tests or questionnaires are likely to be used by certain counselors so that they can learn more about the talents and personality of their client. This in turn will help them to find the most appropriate career path for their client. Career changes can often make a big difference to a person's mental wellbeing, instilling a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction. Professional guidance can help people to assess the feasibility of their goal and then work towards it. Careers advice is available to all, regardless of age or standing in an organization. |
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