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So many questions...

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Lola53

Member since
May 2021

269 posts

Posted Thu May 6, 2021 1:43pmReport post

The knock came a couple of days ago, we're still reeling as I'm sure everyone will understand. My first question is where can we access a good ongoing counselling service offering one-to-one?

Lucy from Stop it Now!

Member since
September 2018

490 posts

Posted Mon May 17, 2021 5:11pmReport post

Hello Lola

Thank you for reaching our for guidance and support on our family and friends forum. I can see that your post has not yet received a response. Hopefully other forum users may be able to offer some additional support, but in the meantime, here is some advice which you may find helpful.

In regards to accessing some on-going counselling there are many options which vary in suitability depending on what type of support you are hoping to seek. You may find it helpful to consider reaching out to your GP to see if there is any support or guidance they may be able to offer. It is important to bear in mind this will likely be related to your mental well-being in general, rather than the knock.

Another option you may wish to consider is searching for a specialised counsellor on the BACP directory (https://www.bacp.co.uk/search/Therapists). You can enter your location and any specialism you require and can look for a therapist who is right for you.

Another option that may be relevant for you to explore is individualised therapy with a STOPSO counsellor. You can make an enquiry for one-to-one support via their website here (https://stopso.org.uk/client-request-help/).

In regards to accessing some support relating to what has happened I highly recommend that you consider contacting our anonymous and confidential helpline on 0808 1000 900 to talk to someone independent of the situation. During this call we can discuss what has happened, the emotional impact this has had on you, and any relevant services which you could access. One of these may include our Inform programme, which is an information and education programme, for individuals whose loved ones have accessed indecent images of children. The programme aims to offers a safe space in which people who are struggling with the emotional and practical impact of internet offending can bring their questions and anxieties and begin to explore them in a supportive environment. You can find out more information about this course on our website or by calling the Stop It Now! helpline (https://www.lucyfaithfull.org.uk/inform.htm).

I hope this information is helpful and you are able to access some more support from others on the forum.



Take care,

Lucy

Lola53

Member since
May 2021

269 posts

Posted Wed May 19, 2021 12:00pmReport post

Thank you Lucy x

Max27

Member since
May 2021

6 posts

Posted Wed May 19, 2021 1:53pmReport post

Hi Lola,



I'm so sorry to hear this has happened. My partner was arrested two weeks ago, and I've found this forum and the helpline to be comforting resources during an unspeakably difficult time.



I have had good experiences with the Philadelphia Association.



They do 1-1 assessments and match you up with a few options for therapists who fit your needs, preferences, and budget. (Many of the therapists work on sliding scale if budget is a concern.) I use them and a few friends of mine have, and all of us found really excellent support.



Therapy is helping me so much right now - I think trying to find professional help is such a strong move.



Sending love and strength.

Edited by moderator Wed May 19, 2021 3:13pm

Lola53

Member since
May 2021

269 posts

Posted Wed May 19, 2021 3:47pmReport post

Hi Max27, thank you so much for your message and the information about the Philadelphia Association. As you say, it's an unspeakably difficult time and I don't want to talk to any of my friends about it so I feel as if I'm living a double life. I'm quite a strong person and being proactive is my way through this.

Sending love and strength to you too x