Hello Mo
I'd like time to get my head round this. If I think of any more I shall
write.
One of the best psychotherapy sessions that I had with an adolescent was in
a British Home Stores Cafeteria. There was even an element of play therapy
when [he] poured salt and pepper on to the table then mixed it with vinegar.
Oh yes, then he attempted to set me on fire with a cigarette lighter - I
stopped him!
I won't bother with my interpretation of this as that wouldn't address your
question. Youngsters often need the formal structure of a session; start
on time, finish on time. However many such youngsters won't go near a
therapist with a barge pole. I am of the opinion that if the therapist is
aware of boundariies then these will be communicated to the young patient,
it then doesn't matter where therapy takes place. I have had sessions in
Parks, cafes, fun fairs, sitting on railway station steps and a memorable
one with the patient sitting on one of the lions in Trafalgar Square while I
stood beside him. Very many years after finishing treatment I am writing a
paper on this young person's therapy -with his explicit and written
permission.
I suppose in conclusion I would say, know the boundaries then carry on with
therapy wherever it feels right. The biggest obstacle to overcome is one's
own resistance to being outside of the consulting room and criticism from
ones peers.
I wouldn't worry what BACP has to say. They should be experienced and
professional enough to see that many roads lead to Rome.
Kindest
Gerald
-----Original Message-----
From: Mo Wilson <[log in to unmask]>
To: [log in to unmask] <[log in to unmask]>
Date: 07 April 2003 13:04
Subject: counselling young people
>I'm doing research into young people's perceptions of counselling and
>the question arises as to whether counselling undertaken in an informal
>setting still meets the standards required by BACPS for example - a
>soundproof, quiet and secure room different from the teaching
>environment, is specified in the new Counselling in Schools guidance.
>
>More specifically, is counselling for young people affected by its
>context, the setting, formality etc.
>
>Are young people discouraged from seeking counselling because of the
>formality and if so how
>can this become different and more attractive to young people and still
>conform to BACP guidelines?
>
>Can informal counselling still be the subject of formal contract and
>remain informal?
>
>What are people's experiences of working with young people and offering
>a more informal
>setting?
>
>Thank you
>
>Mo Wilson
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