Counselling sessions

Have you thought about doing the counselling over the phone so you don’t have to take time off work? 

I went many years ago but only attended 3 sessions in all as it was an 80 mile commute from work and a struggle to get there on time battling traffic. I think you need to go into it with a positive attitude to get something out of it. I found the sessions I did attend helpful as I was able to talk about things I wouldn't with someone I know. Maybe see if you can get telephone counselling at a time to suit you. This is the option I will be taking to endure I complete every session.

I think counselling is so individual that nobody can advise you whether to go or not. I personally think its good to be open minded and trying something new so I would say give it a go. Your boss would be breaking confidentiality which is in place across the whole of the work sector in the UK and you could take it further if she did so with your hr department or through the Court system. Perhaps a bit extreme the latter, but Law exists to protect you as you have Rights. You need only say you have counselling booked and don't need to disclose any more than that.

I did speak with a Gamcare counsellor 10 years ago myself. I didn't really find her that helpful to be honest with you but I have no regrets trying it. Gamblers Anonymous meetings is where I felt understood and could relate much more as people knew exactly what I was going through and could give first hand experience as they had lived it. I found that far more helpful and practical than empathy, but that's just me. Do give it a go as only you can decide if it is helpful. Keep posting here either way and please don't ever think you have it under control as that is a recipe for a full blown disaster in my humble opinion as a recovering addict.

All the best, Simon.

Thanks guys. Fortunately I have been able to change to telephone counselling and have my first session next Tuesday evening. I’ll give it a go. 

That’s great. If you give it a go, at least you know you have tried and it may help, it may not but at least you can say you’ve given it a go. 

Find something that works for you.  I'm doing regular chats with Gamcare counsellor, at weekly GA meetings, and with a face-to-face counsellor.

They all serve different purposes personally. The Gamcare counsellor is great and giving me goals towards why I gambled, and knowing how to prevent my thoughts going down that road again.  GA is great for hearing others stories and relating to them so I know I'm not totaly alone nor should I feel totally broken.  The face-to-face counsellor lets me explore those deeper thoughts and pains that brought me to gambling and various other self-destructive episodes in my life.