Post-diagnosis Counselling : Empathic Counselling

Empathic Counselling provides post-diagnosis counselling for clients who have received a new medical, mental health or neurodevelopmental diagnosis (including pre-natal diagnosis or diagnosis of your child). Finding out that you (or a loved one) have a medical, mental health or neurodevelopmental diagnosis can be shocking and overwhelming. Understandably, you may feel a range of intense emotions, such as:

  • Shock or numbness
  • Fear
  • Anxiety
  • Anger
  • Sadness
  • Guilt or shame
  • Loneliness or isolation
  • Grief/loss

Whilst your medical team is responsible for your medical care and answering your medical questions, it can be helpful to talk to a counsellor in order to express and process your feelings, and nurture your emotional wellbeing during this challenging time. It is important that you have a safe, non-judgemental space to express your feelings freely. A new diagnosis can feel like an emotional rollercoaster, and oftentimes friends and family will say things like “Be strong!” or “You’ll be fine!” or “At least they caught it early!” Even though the sentiment behind this advice is well-meaning, it can make you feel that you are unable to freely express your emotions. In addition, in seeing your family and friends feeling upset about your diagnosis, you may “put on a brave face” to ease their pain. This is understandable, but ultimately adds to your stress and emotional pain.

Empathic Counselling holds space for you to express all of your feelings, and release some of your emotional pain. You will be supported to:

  • Freely express all of your emotions in a safe and non-judgemental space
  • Discuss how to adjust to and cope with the emotional impact of the diagnosis
  • Learn coping strategies for anxiety and living with uncertainty

You can book your appointment through the Booking page.