Common FAQ's
Below are some common Questions about Sports Counselling
I've never been to counselling before. How does it work? It's completely normal to be unsure about what to expect if you've never been to counselling before. While everyone's experience is different, the best way to understand the process is to give it a try. You can also click the "Learn More" option in the main menu to see an example of the sports counselling process.
I don't have any pressing issues, but I'd like to maintain my mental health. Can counselling still help? Absolutely. You don't need to be experiencing a crisis or facing major challenges to benefit from counselling. Llooking after your mental health is just as important as looking after your physical health. Having someone independent to talk to who can listen without judgement, help you process your thoughts, and offer an objective perspective can be one of the best ways to maintain your wellbeing. There doesn't have to be a problem for you to benefit from having someone you trust to talk to.
If I don't play sport, can I still book a session? Of course! While I have a passion for sports, I'm also a qualified generalist counsellor. So whether you're an athlete, work in sport, or have no connection to sport at all, you're welcome to book a session.
I've had a bad experience with a counsellor before. How do I know I can trust this service? I'm sorry to hear you've had a difficult experience. Finding the right counsellor is a very personal process, and one that takes time. I can promise that your wellbeing and comfort in session will always be my priority. Rebooking is also completely in your control with the online booking system. If you choose not to return, there's no hard feelings! I hope you find support that works for you.
Professional Relationships Policy SSMSportsCounselling is committed to maintaining the safety, wellbeing, and professional integrity of both clients and counsellors. Professional relationships between counsellors and clients are to remain within the scope of services provided by SSMSportsCounselling and will not extend into personal relationships outside of the counselling setting. This includes connecting or communicating through personal social media platforms. Where a pre-existing relationship exists, the counsellor will consider whether providing counselling is appropriate and whether professional boundaries can be maintained in accordance with ethical obligations. Communication outside of scheduled sessions, including via telephone, SMS, and email will occur only where appropriate and by mutual agreement between the counsellor and client. Given the unique demands of high-performance sport, additional contact may be necessary at agreed times to provide appropriate support. The purpose, method, and boundaries of this communication will be discussed and agreed upon by both parties.
U18 Professional Relationships Policy At SSMSportsCounselling, communication regarding appointments and administrative matters will be made directly with parents or legal guardians of clients under the age of 18. Counsellors will not routinely communicate directly with clients under the age of 18 outside scheduled counselling sessions. Administrative communication will generally occur through the parent or legal guardian unless otherwise agreed. This helps maintain appropriate professional boundaries and protects the wellbeing of both clients and counsellors. This policy is in place to ensure clear, professional, and ethical relationships between counsellors, young clients, and their families.