Issues

What kind of issues do people bring to therapy?

There is no right or wrong thing to talk about. To list the things that people do talk about would be a pretty long list, so as examples here are some areas that people have been concerned about, and that I work with.

Relationship issues - difficulties or unsatisfying relationships, recurrent arguments that never seem to get resolved, commitment issues, jealousy, abuse & bullying, sexuality and past traumas. The sort of things that can be that can be difficult or embarrassing to talk to friends about. Relationships within the family, friends or colleagues, fed up of being on your own - for some reasons relationships either keep falling apart or don't get off the ground.

Self-esteem - confidence issues, feelings of inadequacy, assertiveness, anger.

Life transitions - those important times of change in our lives, Being out of work, being made redundant, retiring, leaving home, separating/divorcing, new job, aging, becoming a parent. Problems can gradually or suddenly affect us. Perceptions of ourselves at these times are tested, who we thought we are is in question.

The Blues - depression or low mood, anxiety & panic attacks. Suicidal feelings.

Trauma (incl. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) - from recent or early life events.

Bereavement - Loss, anger, loneliness, sadness & depression.

Articles

'Britain on the couch: UK therapists share our biggest worries'
Louise Chunn, The Guardian, December 2013

I contributed, along with other therapist across the country, to an article describing what issues people across the UK bring to Therapy. If you're interested it can be found at: www.theguardian.com