1. How would you describe the core principles of therapy?
The therapeutic process is about collaboration, empathy, and non-judgmental
support. It aims to help individuals gain insight into their challenges, develop
coping mechanisms, and empower themselves. In my book, I aim to clarify that
therapy is for anyone seeking personal growth, self-discovery, or support during
difficult times. It is not limited to those with diagnosed mental disorders.
Therapists serve as guides, helping individuals navigate their thoughts and
feelings, rather than solutions, as we believe that the clients has the answers within
themselves, the aim of therapy is to empower the clients to find these answers.
The therapeutic process is a gradual and collaborative journey, emphasising the
strength and resilience of individuals rather than focusing solely on any areas of
weakness. Recognising these strengths leads to increased self-confidence and self-
esteem.
2. What misconceptions do people often have about therapy?
Common misconceptions about therapy contribute to a reluctance among many
individuals to seek support. One major misconception is the belief that therapy is
exclusively for those struggling with severe mental illnesses. Therapy caters to a
wide spectrum of needs, from everyday stress to more profound challenges.
Another common misperception is that therapists offer solutions to every problem.
In reality, therapists facilitate a collaborative process, guiding individuals to
explore their thoughts and emotions while empowering them to discover their
solutions.
Furthermore, the misconception that therapy signifies weakness rather than
proactive self-improvement creates a stigma that prevents people from seeking
help. Therapy is a proactive step toward understanding oneself and fostering
personal growth.
Lastly, therapy is not a 'quick fix' ;: Therapy is a gradual and transformative process,
promoting sustainable changes rather than immediate resolutions.
3. How does therapy contribute to personal growth and self-discovery?
Therapy contributes to personal growth and self-discovery by providing
individuals with a supportive and non-judgmental environment to explore their
thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. Through open dialogue with a trained
therapist, individuals gain deeper insights into the root causes of their challenges,
allowing them to develop a clearer understanding of themselves.
The therapeutic process encourages self-reflection, helping individuals identify
patterns of thinking or behaving that may be hindering personal development. By
gaining awareness of these patterns, individuals can work towards making positive
changes, thereby fostering personal growth.
The therapeutic relationship is also a valuable source of support. The collaborative
nature of therapy ensures that individuals feel heard and validated, promoting a
shared connection and trust. Through this process, individuals can embark on a
journey of self-discovery, uncovering their strengths, values, and aspirations,
ultimately contributing to a more profound and fulfilling sense of personal growth.
4. Do you have any personal advice or insights for individuals considering starting
therapy?
The advice I would give anyone starting therapy is to think about or even write
down, why they are seeking therapy, what they are hoping to gain from therapy and
also how the are feelings and their thoughts before they start therapy – This gives
them a point of reference to look back on to see how far they have come.
I would also advice that they consider what type of therapy suits them, I am a
person centred therapist which means the sessions are led by what you want to talk
about, whilst some people may benefit and want to take the lead, others may want
a more structured session. I would also advice to consider if they want the therapist
to be of a particular gender, race, age, etc, do they need to have experience in their
issues.
Once these decisions have been made, there are a number of counselling
directories online if you are seeking private therapy, and also NHS counselling,
free sessions via some charities and EAP counselling that many can access for free
through their employers.
5. For individuals who may be hesitant or unsure about starting therapy, what
reassurance or information can you provide to help them?
Speak to friends, family and colleagues that may have already had therapy. Use the
internet to research what the types of therapy are, and even book a session with a
therapist to experience what happens.
Alternatively, you can also read or listen to my book “A look inside the therapy”
where I have answered more of the questions commonly asked by those seeking
therapy and shared experiences of some of my previous clients (with full
permission).
6. What made you want to write and publish a book about therapy?
I moved to a new area and wanted a different way to re-establish my therapy
business counselling with Chrissie, after chatting with a couple of publishers I
decided to write my book. As the content is what I do one a daily basis it only took
3 months to write, with input from the clients who have amazingly allowed me to
share their stories.
I also included a couple of extras such as my pause for thought pages, which are
the end of some of the chapters and ask questions about how what reader is
thinking and feeling about what they have just read.
I included my own story of living with cerebral palsy since birth and the challenges
I’ve overcome to be where I am today.
I loved writing my book and have been blown away by the opportunities that it has
opened, such as being invited to give talks and presentations, recording podcasts
and interviews with a variety of people. I never imagined that they would happen.
7. Who are you and where how can we contact you.
I am Chrissie Henson and I have been a therapist since 2016, I have worked for
University of Leicester in 2019 and as a private therapist since 2018, and also work
for Health Assured as an EAP therapist.
You can contact me via my website counsellingwithchrissie.co.uk
I’m also on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.
My book A look inside the therapy is available via amazon for paperback and
kindle. My audiobook is available on most audio platforms like Spotify and
If you would like to contact me about anything in this blog post please contact me
via my website or my direct message on my social media sites.
This article was in connection with Disability Resilience Network - find out about how to join us here: www.disabilityresiliencenetwork.com