Counselling

Many people struggle with the fundamental aspects of their life such as their family, personal relationship, work pressures or the uncertainty about their future. This happens often because of the stressors of life combined with the fact that we were never actually taught how to best relate in these types of circumstances. Our psychologists all pride themselves on implementing mechanisms that are proven to be effective in assisting individuals in dealing with emotion that often blocks logical and rational approaches to these types of problems.

Marriage and Relationship

The statistics related to marriage difficulties in today’s society clearly indicate the struggles that couples are having. In relationship counseling it is crucial to appreciate what is necessary to achieve a functional relationship. These include empathy, making time for fun and communication, maintaining intimacy and romance and knowing how to effectively deal with emotions and stress in your life and not dragging your relationship into the stress. There are also some fundamentals that act as a dangerous catalyst to hurting the relationship. This means recognizing when the four most destructive behaviours are apparent. Namely criticizing, being defensive, showing contempt and stonewalling.

Vocational

Vocational counselling is often considered as important to students, but in the rapidly changing environment of work today it is also required for those who are seeking clarity and options about their future what ever age that may be. The decision making related to a career and an individual’s direction and progress towards vocational goals often play a crucial role in the development of both individual identity and purpose, as well as positive self-esteem and interpersonal functioning.

We consider three important steps toward achieving the goal of an effective vocational outcome.

First phase: Establishing Vocational Interests and Competencies

This step of vocational counselling involves self-exploration:

• A review of past experiences and accomplishments to identify interests, abilities and skills
• Identification of current occupational interests by means of tests, inventories or exercises
• Assessment of individual traits and needs as they relate to the work environment
• Clarification and appreciation of personal values and goals as they affect career decisions.

Second phase: Labour Market Analysis

It is important to establish a fit between what you enjoy and are interested in and what is available. This is conducted through both the internet as well as making contact with people and organisations in the areas of interest

Third phase: Job seeking

This phase includes the assistance from the psychologist to facilitate the final goal – a new career / employment opportunity. This phase may involve:

• Discovering/creating employment opportunities.
• Creating a positive and effective resumé.
• Successful preparation and performance of a job interview.