Counselling For Disabled

Statistics show that 1 in 4 people will experience mental health problems every year. People with disabilities have many things to deal with to establish a level of ‘normality’ in their lives. Spontaneity can be an issue for some as their lives are meticulously planned to achieve different goals and this can be frustrating. Often disabled individuals cannot always achieve the things they want due to many factors such as social and physical barriers, as well as relying on others to enable them. Personal freedom can be an issue for those who are not positively supported by others to reach their potential. There can be a sense of overcoming and adjusting to any disability not only for the individual but for those around them. Some individuals cope perfectly well and adjust to living with a disability and life is ‘normal’ for them.  They accept themselves and who they are as individuals and this is no different to anyone else, the difference lies in the challenges thrown up at them, and how they deal with their situation.  Others may find the constant challenges more overwhelming and this may affect their mood, self esteem and confidence. It can be an isolating experience living with a disability at times. It’s not unreasonable to think that some of the challenges and stresses of living with a disability may impact on individuals emotionally and psychologically. I want individuals who access this service to know that I will be able to understand and relate to them through facing some of these everyday challenges myself.

I think it is important to acknowledge the care givers and enablers who support their loved ones throughout their lives. I provide support for the families, partners and carers as I am aware of the impact disabilities may have on relationships and family life. I feel I can offer a deep understanding and personal insight into supporting those affected by disability.

I considered some of the barriers people with disabilities and their families face and wanted to ensure that this service was as accessible as possible. Therefore counselling is offered in a variety of formats. I offer face to face counselling in North East England from accessible premises or home visits if the clients home is accessible. To reach those further afield I offer telephone counselling within the UK and online video/audio counselling worldwide so that counselling support can be fitted around the clients’ needs. Many people with disabilities may feel unable to commit to accessing counselling in person so this is a service they can access from the comfort of their own home.

As a qualified CPCAB counselling supervisor I am also able to offer support to other professionals working within this area of expertise. I felt it was important for me to take this step professionally to help enhance the practice of others as disability is not addressed in depth within counselling training. I feel I can use my knowledge and insight to positively impact on counselling and it is another way I am able to contribute to promoting a better understanding of disabilities.

This service supports individuals from a range of disabling conditions including a disability the individual was born with, a progressive debilitating illness, or disability as a result of an accident. This service will tackle issues such as loss, grief, frustration, anxiety, low self-esteem, assertiveness, bereavement, empowerment, coping strategies, depression, isolation, diagnosis, self esteem, negative thoughts, relationship difficulties, anger, worry, hopelessness, oppression, progressive illness, sexual abuse, psychological abuse, guilt, independence, transition, and stress. It will also offer support to find practical solutions to everyday problems.

Author: Helen Rutherford BA Hons Counselling, MBACP register (No.065042)