Where did it come from?
Counselling is probably one of the oldest professions in the world. Since the beginning of time, people sought counsel from others far wiser than themselves. Although the history of western psychological therapies can be traced back to the contributions of Freud; psychotherapy, or the 'talking cure', as it has been called is not new. For as long as human beings have eased troubled minds through verbal communication, psychotherapy has existed in one form or another. Ancient Egyptian and Greek writing dating back 3,500 years or more, talk of 'healing through words', and the word 'counselling' was used as early as 1386 in Chaucer's Wife of Bath's Tale. Similarly, while modern histories may claim psychotherapy and advanced psychological understanding as exclusively Western domains, orientalists have noted that Tibetan Buddhist and Sufi literature is full of profound psychological insight and sophisticated psychotherapeutic practices.

What is it?
Counselling is a professional act, or combination of professional activities and approaches that utilise an interpersonal relationship to enable people to develop understanding about themselves and to make changes in their lives. Professional Psychotherapists and Counsellors work within a clearly contracted, principled relationship that enables individuals to obtain assistance in exploring and resolving issues of an interpersonal, intrapsychic, or personal nature.

In a nutshell, counselling is something that provides direction or advice to a decision or course of action. It is usually a combination of approaches and methods, in order to best meet the individual needs and resolve their issue(s).

What's the difference between psychotherapy & counselling? Although both Psychotherapists and Counsellors work with a wide variety of clients, Psychotherapists are more likely to work very intensively, with more deeply disturbed individuals who are seen more frequently over a longer period of time. Counsellors are more likely to work in specific areas where specialised knowledge and method are needed (e.g. marital and family counselling, bereavement counselling, school counselling, addictions counselling, HIV/AIDS counselling)..

How do I get counselling?
Serendipity can offer you a specialised counselling service, which meets your needs and your issues using the very latest professional techniques for the best outcome.

Arranging counselling with Serendipity is easy - Just call or email us to start your counselling!

How much does it cost?
This depends on what issues you bring to counselling. Traditionally, we agree on the amount at the start and all fees are due before your third session. To find out the cost of a first session, please call us for a price, as the cost depends on your situation.