Counselling for carers
Generally speaking, however willingly a person takes on a caring role they usually find themselves having to give up certain things — paid work, perhaps, or hobbies, time with friends, time alone. Carers can easily become socially isolated. Also, the relationship with the cared-for person can change in unexpected ways — changes which can be difficult to handle.
Further changes have to be faced when the caring situation comes to an end — how do you adjust to yet another role; how do you pick up where you left off before you became a carer?
Time to Talk
Opportunities to talk about feelings of anxiety and frustration don’t often happen. Time to Talk offers the chance to talk things over with a trained counsellor who understands the difficulties and problems with which carers have to live. Counselling is not about giving advice, nor is it a magic wand that waves away troubles — if only it were that easy! It is about providing a safe space and an understanding ear to help explore ways of working through the difficult feelings that can arise in a carers’ life.
Counselling is available free of charge on a weekly basis. Sessions are held on Fridays, between 10.00 am and 5.00 pm, each session lasting for 50 minutes. The first meeting is to establish that you both feel comfortable working with one another. If you decide to continue they will be held at the same time each week, the number of sessions being agreed between you and the counsellor.
What am I committing to?
You may self-refer for the service and, although there is no charge, you will be required to make a commitment to attending. Please note that if you miss your first two sessions you will be asked to go back on the waiting list.
Financial help to pay for sitters and transport is available. For more information contact Deborah Knight on 020 7428 8950.
Photo by Neil Meddemmen
Funded by Camden Council.
