"My first experience of counselling"

I was referred to the service for counselling by my GP following a particularly bad episode of depression in September last year (although I was first diagnosed with depression 20 years ago and have taken medication for it 'on and off' since). This was my first experience of counselling and proved to be a very positive one, in spite of the restrictions imposed by the the Covid 19 pandemic.  I expected I would only benefit from face-to-face counselling, which was not possible in the current climate, but my counselor  discussed the options fully with me and I decided to try  on-line sessions, as these could take place straight away.  Marilyn was excellent - she ensured regularly that I was comfortable to proceed on-line and, in a couple of sessions, we used a combination of on-line and telephone options to great effect (following problems with my internet connection and recognition that I needed the visual contact).  She ensured I made the best of our sessions by suggesting I took a period of 'time' out' before and after each one and made me feel so comfortable that I had no hesitation in opening up and sharing with her some very bad personal experiences in the last 20 years.  I knew I had her full attention at all times and trusted her completely.  She helped me to identify behaviors and attitudes that have been unhelpful in the past, to recognise if/when these re-occur and ways I can respond to, and manage, negative mood changes in future.  I feel very positive going forwards.     

My only criticism of the service is that it took me 7 months to access the counselling sessions and I'm sure I would have benefited from an earlier intervention.  

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