Accessing support
during the pandemic

It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that the Covid-19 pandemic has been historically monumental: 

For many of us it has been a time of increased pressure, escalated anxiety and feelings of stress. For others, the Covid pandemic has led to our mental health spiralling and depression has begun to creep in. For those already struggling with mental health, the lack of face-to-face emotional support and the isolation of lockdown has been damaging to say the least.

And what about our children? Will they have the resilience and tools to be able to cope and adjust to the new ‘normal’ as we move forwards through this strange new world? What effect will being locked down have on them in the future?

We are yet to witness the true cost to the nation’s mental health during this pandemic. Over the coming months (and years) we expect to see the true effects of being locked down and separated from our loved ones unfold.

We believe that seeking mental health support now is more crucial than ever. Finding counselling support during the pandemic means that you (and your children) can adopt a robust coping mechanism and gain mental health support as reality slowly resumes.

Counselling Safely During the Pandemic

Each of our counsellors is a member of the BACP (The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy). The organisation works to promote the role and relevance of the counselling professions in improving psychological wellbeing and mental health and to develop safe, ethical and competent practice.

We work within the ethical framework of the BACP and so are guided by their advice surrounding counselling and the Covid-19 pandemic.

Carolyn Mumby, chair of BACP coaching, says, “We are living with great uncertainty – so much more than usual is unknown. We know from research that living with uncertainty may be more challenging than coping with a known catastrophe. The pace of change is also very fast. This can be overwhelming…. Mental health issues are likely to manifest as people are stressed, isolated and at times traumatised. Many people may be in their “threat” or “survivor” responses which are less conducive to positive engagement and good thinking”.

So how do we recharge and renew our mental health? Counselling is the key.

Online Counselling During the Pandemic

Being able to access online mental health therapy is so important. With many people currently unwilling (or unable) to access face-to-face counselling due to their health or ongoing Government restrictions, online support is currently the preferred route.

For some who are used to the quiet, safe space of a counselling room, online therapy can prove tricky as you adjust to the busy environment of your home. We advise that you find a quiet spot where you can find peace – sometimes an outside space in nature works best (and this can also boost your mood). By minimising noise and distractions, you’re more likely to be able to get the most out of your online counselling sessions and take positive steps towards your personal mental wellbeing. Online therapy is also a good way to benefit from some human contact when you’re self-isolating or following social distancing guidelines.

We offer online counselling which makes our qualified counsellors accessible to all, at a time to suit you, safely.

Our online therapy offers:

• Day time, evening and weekend sessions available
• Counselling sessions from the comfort of your own home (or alternative safe space)
• The versatility of being able to receive specialist counselling without having to travel during the lockdown

For advice on whether our face-to-face or group counselling sessions are available, we remain guided by government Covid guidelines here.