Our Holding Space - Blog/ Insights

Feeling Truly Heard

Many people come to counselling not because they need answers, but because they want to feel understood.

Feeling truly heard is more than someone listening to words. It’s about being met with presence, acceptance, and care — without judgement or pressure to explain yourself.

When we feel heard, something often softens. There may be relief in not having to hold everything alone, or space for thoughts and feelings to emerge.

From a person-centred perspective, being deeply listened to can support self-understanding and self-acceptance.

You might pause and notice where in your life you feel truly heard — and where you don’t.

These reflections are not a substitute for counselling or professional support.

Self-Acceptance and Change

We often feel pressure to be different — more confident, more settled, more “together”.

While change can be part of growth, constant self-criticism can leave us feeling disconnected from who we are.

Self-acceptance doesn’t mean giving up. It means meeting yourself with honesty and compassion.

When we feel accepted as we are, meaningful change can begin to feel safer and more possible.

You might notice how you speak to yourself when things feel difficult.

These reflections are not a substitute for counselling or professional support.

Sitting With Difficult Feelings

Difficult feelings are something many of us try to avoid.

We may distract ourselves, push them away, or judge ourselves for having them. Yet emotions often arise for a reason.

In counselling, there is space to sit gently with difficult feelings rather than rush to change them. This doesn’t mean becoming overwhelmed, it means allowing feelings to be acknowledged.

When emotions are met with curiosity instead of judgement, they may begin to feel more manageable.

You might notice what it’s like to allow a feeling to be present, just for a moment.

These reflections are not a substitute for counselling or professional support.

Taking the First Step

Reaching out for counselling can feel like a big step.

You may feel unsure, nervous, or wonder whether your concerns are serious enough. These feelings are very common.

Beginning counselling isn’t about having everything figured out. It’s about giving yourself space to explore what matters.

Even considering counselling can be an act of care towards yourself.

You might take a moment to notice what has brought you here.

These reflections are not a substitute for counselling or professional support.