Let’s Talk About the Therapist Behind the Therapy

The funny thing is, I didn’t realise I wanted to become a counsellor until I had counselling myself. There was a time in my life when I was struggling on so many levels—anxiety, depression, and a deep sense of being lost. On top of that, I developed compulsive behaviours as a way to escape my problems. It was my way of coping, but in the end, it only became another problem to add to the pile.

I decided to seek counselling to address my compulsive nature, and it was during this process that I discovered something truly life-changing: I felt safe and free from judgement. For the first time, I had the space to speak openly, to unpick the issues that had been weighing me down for so long. It was in that space that I realised the common theme running through my life—I felt stuck. I had no confidence to make changes, and despite desperately wanting to move forward, I was crippled by fear.

One of the key realisations for me was that my anxiety had kept me in a job that was comfortable but unfulfilling. It was all I knew, and the thought of change terrified me. But my therapist challenged me in a way that, looking back, I am incredibly grateful for. She simply asked, “What is going to change?”

That question sparked a flood of ideas. I could go back to studying. I could look for a new job. I could update my CV. For the first time in a long time, I felt empowered. I decided to take it one step at a time, breaking down the process of change into manageable pieces. The ideas and actions finally came together, and I began to take those first steps towards a new direction.

It was this experience that ultimately inspired me to become a counsellor. I wanted to help others find that same space—where they could feel heard, safe, and supported as they work through their own challenges. Just as I once felt lost, I now want to offer a path for others to find their way.