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One of the things I love most about counselling—both giving it and <a data-mce-href="https://veddercounselling.ca/blog/counselling-for-counsellors" href="https://veddercounselling.ca/blog/counselling-for-counsellors">receiving it</a>—is that you can talk about whatever you want. That might sound simple, maybe even obvious, but most people don’t get that kind of space very often.Most of our conversations in daily life are moving toward something: a task, a decision, a solution, or someone else’s needs. We’re editing ourselves as we go, deciding what’s worth saying out loud and what isn’t. But counselling is—and should be—a different kind of conversation. And being that it’s different, different things get shared. The unexpected comes up. Things you didn’t even know you were carrying show up in the room. And when that happens, we get to see our lives in a different way.I’ve had people start sessions saying, “I don’t even know what I need to talk about today,” and it turns out that’s often where the gold is. That space of not knowing, of being a little aimless or messy or scattered—that’s where real reflection lives. In that space, you might find yourself telling a story you hadn’t thought about in years, or finally saying something you’ve never had the chance to say out loud.One person I worked with once apologized for talking about the same topic three weeks in a row. They were frustrated with themselves for not “moving on.” But the truth is, that topic was still alive for them. It was unfinished. And it deserved attention. When we allow that kind of repetition and exploration, it often softens something inside. It gives it room to shift.I think we forget how rare it is to have a space where we don’t have to make sense all the time. Counselling doesn’t need you to be polished or prepared. It doesn’t need your “best self.” It just needs you. However you show up that day.The <a data-mce-href="https://veddercounselling.ca/blog/the-healing-power-of-confidential-therapy-sessions" href="https://veddercounselling.ca/blog/the-healing-power-of-confidential-therapy-sessions">permission to talk </a>about whatever is on your mind—even if it feels old, small, or strange—is one of the most healing parts of therapy. There’s no agenda, no rush, and no “shoulds.” And sometimes, in the middle of all that freedom, something new and important comes into view.So if you’re wondering whether your story, your thoughts, or your feelings are worth bringing into a session, the answer is yes. If it’s on your mind, it matters. Bring it.

The Joy of Talking About Whatever You Want in Counselling

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Understanding the Purpose of Your First SessionYour first counselling session is an important step in your journey towards better mental health and well-being. It's an opportunity to establish a <a data-mce-href="https://veddercounselling.ca/blog/why-therapy-works--it-s-not-just-the-technique---it-s-the-relationship" href="https://veddercounselling.ca/blog/why-therapy-works--it-s-not-just-the-technique---it-s-the-relationship" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">connection with your therapist</a>, share your concerns, and begin building a foundation for future sessions. Understanding the purpose of this initial meeting can help set your expectations and reduce any anxiety you may have.During this session, you'll likely discuss your reasons for seeking therapy, your personal background, and any specific goals you hope to achieve. This conversation helps the therapist tailor their approach to meet your needs. Remember, the first session is as much about you evaluating the therapist as it is about them understanding you.Preparing for Your First SessionPreparation can ease any nervousness you might feel before your first counselling appointment. If you are feeling nervous, consider jotting down some key points or questions you'd like to address. Reflect on what has prompted you to seek therapy and what you hope to gain from it. This can provide a clearer focus during the session and ensure you cover essential topics.It's also beneficial to gather any relevant information that might help your therapist understand your situation better, such as previous mental health history or significant life events. Being open and honest will allow for a more productive session.Setting Realistic ExpectationsIt's important to set realistic expectations for your first counselling session. While it can be incredibly valuable, don't expect to resolve all your issues immediately. <a data-mce-href="https://veddercounselling.ca/blog/beyond-quick-and-easy-solutions" href="https://veddercounselling.ca/blog/beyond-quick-and-easy-solutions">Therapy is a process that takes time and commitment</a>. The initial session is just the beginning of this journey.Use this time to get comfortable with the therapeutic environment and ask any questions you might have about the process. Understanding how therapy works and what you can expect in future sessions can alleviate uncertainties.Communicating OpenlyOpen communication is key to a successful counselling experience. Your therapist is there to support you in a non-judgmental space, so don't hesitate to express your thoughts and feelings honestly. No matter how much you are judging your own thoughts, after hearing so many stories over the years there is little that surprises our counsellors. <a data-mce-href="https://veddercounselling.ca/blog/the-joy-of-talking-about-whatever-you-want-in-counselling" href="https://veddercounselling.ca/blog/the-joy-of-talking-about-whatever-you-want-in-counselling">Sharing openly</a> will help your therapist gain insights into your experiences and offer more effective guidance.If you're unsure about how to start the conversation, remember that therapists are skilled in guiding discussions. They will ask questions to help you articulate your feelings and concerns if needed.Taking Care of Yourself After the SessionAfter your first counselling session, take some time for self-care. Processing emotions that arise during therapy can be exhausting, so consider engaging in activities that help you relax and recharge. This could be anything from taking a walk in nature, practicing mindfulness, or enjoying a hobby you love.If you feel comfortable, jot down thoughts or emotions that stood out to you. This reflection can be beneficial for future sessions and help track your progress over time. Keeping a journal about the sessions and reflecting more deeply on what was said can increase the gains made from counselling.Scheduling Follow-Up SessionsBefore concluding your first session, discuss with your therapist about scheduling follow-up <a data-mce-href="https://veddercounselling.ca/contact" href="https://veddercounselling.ca/contact">appointments</a>. Consistency is crucial in therapy, so try to establish a regular schedule that works for both of you. This ongoing commitment is vital for making meaningful progress on your therapeutic journey.Finally, remember that it's okay to seek a different therapist if you feel the current one isn't the right fit for you. <a data-mce-href="https://veddercounselling.ca/team" href="https://veddercounselling.ca/team">Finding someone</a> you feel comfortable with is essential for successful therapy outcomes.

Navigating Your First Counselling Session

Parenting has been a practice of such contention over the last few decades. Everyone now is wondering whether or not they are doing it right and in swoops the industry built to give parents the “right” answers they are seeking. I ran parenting groups for a number of years and I quickly learned that nearly all the parents there were the parents that did not need to be there. They were the parents who were caring and did their very best to be the very best parents. Looking for answers they would try any new thing that the facilitators had to offer. Every week they would come back reporting on their homework, even if I did not assign any!A handful of parents attended some of these groups and did need to be there. These parents struggled to make ends meet and worked hard at their jobs only to come home and have little to offer their children. It was an honour for them to join the group and to see them take a couple of things away. After teaching a number of skills and techniques to the parenting group, I remember one of these parents reporting that they started reading to their child once a week. This was a big step forward for them because I could see that they were enjoying this time as well.A first step I suggest to parents is to reflect on your own experience as a child and what worked and did not work for you. What you might discover is that you will come across some experiences as a child where you would say “I became the way I am because of…” and for other experiences you might say “I became the way I am in spite of…” This is the problem, if they would recognize it as such, for many biographers to decide on when writing about people’s lives. For instance, did Eleanor Roosevelt gain a strong sense of self because of some of the losses she faced in her childhood or was it in spite of those events? A question similar to this was posed by James Hillman in his book the<a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.ca/Souls-Code-Search-Character-Calling/dp/0399180141/ref=sr_1_1?crid=20MMZGRWF1JYP&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.qBKB00w4IJRfdD5N9dt47kYS-HwU0yRbxMUyQ_v0mm74kxDWi6018skdvBD4MCbYkF2557IrxISH_XPChTjxEnxuC3_GleMU6jbvp0QSpAw_Wdk2TyVCbt0SWir5IYxVpwHu_zFFNMCqUXYxVLCxnQ-IQd62wWW0cWOjz1D5-VXhhEVjiaLT3PrEWh_RXb6cWnoT6-cVzA2atGvOtziGv3obX1WSPgLWPtFXtXJFiW7apZlJPompQ0A_AVawMnNNfh55oU0L3QDgQalFwJ0c-WhWuMw1tsySOrREAYqf6F4.OX6dqUB4P5gCHJfPk1UJySOHIp7RH0AAKxVHjEROcog&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=soul%27s+code&amp;qid=1759090955&amp;sprefix=soul%27s+code%2Caps%2C264&amp;sr=8-1" href="https://www.amazon.ca/Souls-Code-Search-Character-Calling/dp/0399180141/ref=sr_1_1?crid=20MMZGRWF1JYP&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.qBKB00w4IJRfdD5N9dt47kYS-HwU0yRbxMUyQ_v0mm74kxDWi6018skdvBD4MCbYkF2557IrxISH_XPChTjxEnxuC3_GleMU6jbvp0QSpAw_Wdk2TyVCbt0SWir5IYxVpwHu_zFFNMCqUXYxVLCxnQ-IQd62wWW0cWOjz1D5-VXhhEVjiaLT3PrEWh_RXb6cWnoT6-cVzA2atGvOtziGv3obX1WSPgLWPtFXtXJFiW7apZlJPompQ0A_AVawMnNNfh55oU0L3QDgQalFwJ0c-WhWuMw1tsySOrREAYqf6F4.OX6dqUB4P5gCHJfPk1UJySOHIp7RH0AAKxVHjEROcog&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=soul%27s+code&amp;qid=1759090955&amp;sprefix=soul%27s+code%2Caps%2C264&amp;sr=8-1" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary"> Soul’s Code.</a>Another aspect that parents have taught me over the years from their own experience in being parented themselves when they were younger is that we do not need perfect parents, we need improving parents. This is echoed in my work with children over the years where small, gradual improvements are made with some parents is certainly recognized by the children. I imagine even having a parent choose to read to their child once a week might be all it takes to raise a happier child. These small gradual changes are not always easy though. For the parents so bogged down at the end of the day, the thought of improving on something might be too much. The first step might be identifying what it is that bogs you down and then come up with strategies on what to do about it. Both reflecting on your own experience and making those gradual changes can be the focus of the work in <a data-mce-href="https://veddercounselling.ca/contact" href="https://veddercounselling.ca/contact">counselling.</a>&nbsp;A wonderful resource that I often point parents of anxious children or children with behavioral concerns ages 3-12 is Confident Parents/Thriving Kids. <a href="https://welcome.cmhacptk.ca/" data-mce-href="https://welcome.cmhacptk.ca/">https://welcome.cmhacptk.ca/</a>

Parenting Improvement

There is no short supply of theories of what is missing with this world and I certainly cannot say that I have any theory after only doing my job. Through my experience I have certainly encountered a theme. A philosopher from ancient Athens, <a data-mce-href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plato" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plato">Plato</a>, made some simple observations on human behavior. He explained that the baker makes baked goods and these are satisfying to people but are not healthy. The doctor would suggest that you eat healthy foods that do not taste as good. It takes an act of willpower to be choosing to eat these healthier foods.But why choose the healthy foods when baked goods taste so good? Back in ancient Athens, it was a worry to get sick because they did not have anything of what we have for medical sciences today. There was no “sick time” to be paid out by their jobs. Immune systems would have to be ready for whatever illnesses they might have got from their livestock. Fast forward to our day and age and we have so many social and medical advances to be able to defend against these illnesses. Arguably there is less of a draw to be eating healthier foods.But this is not a blog about healthy eating or foods. This is a blog about therapy and emotional wellness. In the world today, there are so many easy ways to make us feel better instantly that it is astonishing. Before the internet we had to wait for that special time of day for us to watch our TV show and had to be patient throughout the commercials. It was a mark of economic prowess to have a large movie collection and most people rented movies. Now movie streaming and easy entertainment is completely at our easy grasp. It is the fast food of feeling good.There are so many people who prefer these fast ways of feeling good that it ends up as a coping mechanism to rush to these ways of feeling good. Those that are most afraid of feeling anxious or depressed end up being the most anxious and depressed in part by them finding these cheap ways of coping with their emotions or distracting themselves. Plato argued in more ways than one that the best things for the soul were not easy but would be long lasting.Why work on your emotions when there are so many quick ways to feel good? Maybe you do not need to. As long as everything seems to be working with these quick ways to feel good, then maybe let sleeping dogs lie. However, when problems do come and you have done so much to cope with your emotions in these quick and easy ways, taking those first steps into finding out what’s not working in your life can be tough as it might be for eating healthy for the first time. For clients like this, I am deeply grateful to be a part of those first uncertain steps. You might not know what you are feeling or why you are feeling that way. Emotions might have been something you had felt so uncomfortable with expressing for such a long time, not having the right people in your life to have these calm, reflective talks with.&nbsp;Busy with work, family and everything else that pops up in life, I have always found it helpful to check in with my own counsellor to work through some of the questions that I am facing. The work in counselling is never fully done but I think it is worth it in the long term, especially if there are work benefits packages to burn through. If these check-ins with a counsellor are made every once in a while, the really difficult times won’t seem as difficult.👉 Book your <a data-mce-href="https://garrettcounsellingbc.janeapp.com/" href="https://garrettcounsellingbc.janeapp.com/" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">counselling session today </a>and experience the benefits.

Beyond Quick and Easy Solutions

<h2>Understanding the Reality of Mental Health Counselling</h2>Mental health counselling is a crucial part of maintaining overall well-being, yet it remains surrounded by misconceptions. These myths can prevent individuals from seeking the help they need. In this post, we'll explore and debunk some common myths to provide a clearer understanding of what mental health counselling truly entails.<figure id="figure-0vomyw1dwimgcdmnbe"><img id="0vomyw1dwimgcdmnbe" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/1edZwfCerBuCKT8d7zgOvXdkq9et7eTU6dERERy7MAeFf8dJonkflIOfXmbKElxH.jpeg" alt="mental health support" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/1edZwfCerBuCKT8d7zgOvXdkq9et7eTU6dERERy7MAeFf8dJonkflIOfXmbKElxH.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Myth: Counselling is Only for People with Severe Issues</h3>A prevalent misconception is that counselling is only necessary for those dealing with severe mental health issues. In reality, counselling is beneficial for anyone experiencing stress, anxiety, relationship issues, or simply seeking personal growth. It’s a supportive space for individuals to explore their thoughts and emotions without judgment.<h3>Myth: Seeking Help is a Sign of Weakness</h3>Many people believe that reaching out for mental health support indicates weakness. On the contrary, acknowledging the need for help and taking steps to improve one’s mental health requires significant strength and courage. It’s important to recognize that taking care of your mental well-being is just as vital as maintaining physical health.<figure id="figure-5uuro53v8mgcdmruk"><img id="5uuro53v8mgcdmruk" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1489076211/photo/female-psychotherapist-writing-down-notes-during-therapy-with-female-patient.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=B4epMIXNZLFUZpmUWG4SJ4h0XFTTh6B2L7HvCUKk_NE=" alt="counselling session" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1489076211/photo/female-psychotherapist-writing-down-notes-during-therapy-with-female-patient.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=B4epMIXNZLFUZpmUWG4SJ4h0XFTTh6B2L7HvCUKk_NE=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h2>The Role of Mental Health Professionals</h2>Another myth suggests that therapists merely listen and offer no tangible solutions. In truth, mental health professionals are trained to employ a variety of therapeutic techniques tailored to an individual’s needs. They work collaboratively with clients to set goals, develop coping strategies, and foster resilience.<h3>Myth: Therapy is a Quick Fix</h3>Some might expect immediate results from therapy sessions, but it’s important to understand that <a data-mce-href="https://veddercounselling.ca/blog/beyond-quick-and-easy-solutions" href="https://veddercounselling.ca/blog/beyond-quick-and-easy-solutions">therapy is a process</a>. It often requires time and patience to delve into underlying issues and work through them effectively. Progress may be gradual, but each step is crucial in building a healthier mindset.<figure id="figure-xofs58g77mgcdmzed"><img id="xofs58g77mgcdmzed" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/8j9fWXIi4I9e0eFgmcMox96vtajhajzesxuZhHp92zTy1YkNOFtYcRfMX3lOfzUb.jpeg" alt="therapy progress" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/8j9fWXIi4I9e0eFgmcMox96vtajhajzesxuZhHp92zTy1YkNOFtYcRfMX3lOfzUb.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h2>Breaking Down Barriers to Mental Health Counselling</h2>The stigma surrounding mental health can deter individuals from seeking counselling. However, increasing awareness and open conversations are helping to dismantle these barriers. More people are beginning to view mental health care as a normal and essential part of life.<h3>Myth: Counselling is Too Expensive</h3>While cost can be a concern, many options exist for <a data-mce-href="https://veddercounselling.ca/blog/affordable-counselling--bridging-the-gap-for-emotional-and-financial-support" href="https://veddercounselling.ca/blog/affordable-counselling--bridging-the-gap-for-emotional-and-financial-support" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">affordable </a>or free mental health services. Community programs, sliding scale fees, and insurance coverage can make counselling accessible to a broader audience. It’s worthwhile to research local resources and explore available options.<h3>Conclusion: Embracing Mental Health Counselling</h3>Debunking these myths is a step towards normalizing mental health counselling as an integral part of self-care. By understanding the realities of therapy, individuals can make informed decisions about their mental well-being and seek the support they deserve. Remember, reaching out for help is an empowering decision that can lead to personal growth and improved quality of life.

Vedder Counselling

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The Joy of Talking About Whatever You Want in Counselling

Navigating Your First Counselling Session

Parenting Improvement

Beyond Quick and Easy Solutions

Debunking Myths About Mental Health Counselling