Recently, I was speaking with someone about my work as a counsellor. They shared some of their life challenges—ill health, difficult experiences, missed opportunities—and then quickly added, “Oh, it’s ok, I don’t need counselling.”
It made me realise how much stigma still surrounds therapy. We don’t say the same about our physical health—no one feels the need to justify having a personal trainer or nutritionist, there is no justification about seeing a doctor when experiencing a physical health niggle. We certainly wouldn’t wait until we’ve broken more bones before seeking help for a pain we’ve been experiencing.
So why do we do this with our mental health?
The Mind-Body Connection
Our mental and physical health are deeply connected—it’s like the parking sensors on a car. The body and mind communicate through the nervous system, allowing the brain to send signals throughout the body, influencing everything from basic functions like breathing to complex emotions.
Just as parking sensors alert us to potential obstacles before we crash into something, our bodies give us early signals when our mental health needs attention—tight shoulders, headaches, digestive issues, or persistent fatigue. Yet, many of us ignore these signs, pushing through stress and emotional strain until we reach a breaking point.
The brain acts as a command centre, constantly communicating with the body through hormones and neurotransmitters. This means that our mental state can directly impact our physical well-being and vice versa. When we’re anxious, our heart rate increases. When we’re overwhelmed, our muscles tense. And when we don’t address emotional struggles, they can manifest physically—whether through chronic pain, sleep issues, or digestive problems.
Why Does Stigma Around Counselling Still Exist?
The idea that counselling is only for people in crisis is outdated, but it still lingers. Some people worry about being judged, while others feel they should just “get on with it.” In reality, therapy isn’t about weakness—it’s a supportive resource, a sanctuary amongst our busy lives, a space to look at the bigger picture to build our self-awareness, resilience, and make sense of our experiences. Just as we take care of our bodies, it's crucial that in order to do that we also take care of our minds.
How Counselling Can Help You
In an attempt to de-stigmatise therapy I offer a modern and refreshing approach to counselling, combining professional support with the benefits of nature, movement, and a personalised, down-to-earth style. Based in a peaceful, dedicated space next to a beautiful forest walk, I provide an alternative to traditional office-based therapy, helping clients feel more at ease as they explore their thoughts and emotions.
I believe counselling should be flexible, engaging, and tailored to individual needs. That’s why I offer a range of options, including walk-and-talk sessions, online or in-room therapy. My approach is calm, warm, relatable, and focused on real-life, practical change—whether that’s through mindfulness, reflective exercises, or simply creating a safe space for open conversation.
As daunting as it might feel, seeking support is one of the most courageous and life-changing steps you can take toward the change you want. So many clients have told me 'I wish I had done this years ago'.
Get in Touch
If you’ve ever thought, “I don’t need counselling,” but still feel weighed down by life’s experiences, perhaps it’s time to give it a go, give yourself another tool in the kit bag, the space to explore what’s really going on. Counselling isn’t just for when things feel unbearable (although it certainly helps at that point)—it’s also for anyone who wants a moment to breathe away from the demands, expectations of other people, to give an opportunity to hear themselves think, to understand themselves better and create lasting positive change in their lives.
Who wouldn't want that?
Visit www.lynseyberwickcounselling.com to learn more or book a session. You are human, made up of a complex system where your mind and body work together—I'm here to help you make sure you’re listening to both.
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