Counselling
What is counselling?
Counselling takes place when a counsellor and a client make an
agreement to meet in a private and confidential setting to explore
a difficulty or distress in the client's life. One very popular
definition of counselling is that it is "helping people to
help themselves".
Why go for counselling?
Coping with a diagnosis of cancer can be devastating. Patients
and their families may have difficulty coming to terms with the
illness and can experience feelings such as anxiety, fear, anger,
sadness and depression. These feelings can occur
at any time during their cancer journey - possibly many months or
years down the road. Many people feel they have a difficulty speaking
to a close friend or relative. However, it is often very useful
to speak to someone who is not personally involved. You may be able
to express worries or concerns which you have to a counsellor that
you do not wish others to know. Also, it can be difficult for people
undergoing a stressful and emotional experience to talk to the people
closest to them, as they may also be very upset. You may find it
easier to talk to someone outside your immediate circle.
How can counselling help?
A counsellor will be able to provide emotional support by allowing
you express your feelings and fears. The counsellor will not tell
you what to do, but counselling may help you see things differently
and help you find your way through a difficult patch.
Does going to counselling mean admitting failure?
In actual fact, it can be seen as a matter of strength to go for
counselling. Many people think that they are being strong in not
seeking help whereas in fact those that can admit to their difficulties
could be considered the strong ones. Going to
counselling often means you have taken the first step on the road
to resolving the problem.
Do I need to have serious difficulties before going
to counselling?
NO! If you are finding it difficult to cope for whatever reason
then going to counselling may be of benefit.
Does going to counselling mean "I'm losing it?"
NO! It means you are taking responsibility for your situation
and trying to make things better.
Who is the counselling service for?
The service is available for all patients who have had a cancer diagnosis, their family members and significant
others (e.g. a close relative or friend). Most of the counselling
will be on a one to one basis but sometimes it may be appropriate
to invite your spouse/ partner/family member(s) or significant
other along to counselling.
How long will counselling last?
At the first session it will be decided between the counsellor
and client how many sessions may be needed. The client will be offered
up to a total of eight sessions in all. In some cases it may be
possible to extend this. Each counselling session
will last for one hour.
How much does it cost?
The Irish Cancer Society will fund the costs of the counselling
service and there will be no charge to the client.
How do I make an appointment?
Call one of the phone numbers below. Leave a message and the counsellor will call you back.
Counselling service telephone numbers:
| Donegal |
087 249 08 90 |
| Dublin |
087 249 08 90 |
| Cork |
087 689 12 20 |
| Wexford |
087 685 26 28 |
| Drogheda |
087 123 45 98 |
| Mayo |
087 250 03 82 |
| Portlaoise |
087 921 70 37 |
| Limerick |
087 904 05 04 |
|
Helplines
