A 42-year-old woman experiencing longstanding anxiety and low self-esteem reported feeling more confused and discouraged after undergoing non-directive counselling. Despite her counsellor’s kindness and supportiveness, she expressed frustration over the lack of clear guidance and structure in the therapy sessions, which left her unsure of how the process was meant to work or what outcomes to expect. She questioned whether the approach, the therapist, or her own response to the treatment was the issue and wondered if cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) might be a more effective alternative.

The woman noted that her current counsellor encouraged self-discovery without offering explicit direction, which contributed to her sense of failure not only in therapy but also in personal relationships and her career. She is considering CBT, a more practical and goal-oriented form of therapy, but is concerned about long waiting lists in the National Health Service (NHS).

In response, advice from a counsellor suggested that the woman’s experience should not be viewed as a failure. Different therapeutic methods resonate with different individuals, and non-directive counselling may not be the most suitable approach for her needs. CBT was highlighted as a more structured therapy, involving clear explanations of techniques, goal setting, and active assistance in identifying and challenging maladaptive thoughts.

Given the extended NHS waiting periods for CBT, it was recommended that the woman consult her general practitioner about local charities or low-cost options that may offer CBT services. Additional resources, such as informational support packs, were also suggested to provide guidance and help connect her with organizations that can support her mental health journey.