Mable independent support workers can access 1-on-1 counselling to support their mental health and wellbeing.
Your wellbeing is important, especially in the workplace.
The program is free of charge and available 24/7, offering 1-on-1 confidential counselling, resources and exclusive offers.
We sat down with a consultant from the Mable Wellbeing Platform to discuss the importance of mental wellbeing and the benefits of seeking a counsellor.
In what way can counsellors provide their services for support workers?
“Counsellors can provide valuable support to independent support workers through offering services aimed at promoting mental health and wellbeing. Counsellors create a safe, confidential and supportive space for clients to discuss any personal or work-related challenges that they may be facing.
By equipping clients with the tools they need to manage stress, and provide evidence-based interventions tailored to the client’s needs, we can:
- Support clients
- Alleviate symptoms
- Improve their mental health and wellbeing
- Enhance their overall quality of life.
In addition to this, we provide information on professionals including psychologists and general practitioners, as well as specialised services ensuring clients receive comprehensive, holistic, and wrap-around support.”
What kind of issues and questions have support workers raised with you in the past?
“Most clients initially seek the confidential support of a counsellor for career-related changes or workplace conflicts.
However, through the process of unpacking and building rapport with a client, we are able to establish a sense of safety and trust. As a result, clients feel comfortable seeking support for not only work-related issues, but also for personal challenges they may be facing that impact their performance at work.
In addition to supporting clients navigate burnout and work-life balance, we provide guidance and support in navigating life’s challenges, including:
- Mental health concerns
- Grief and loss
- Complex childhood trauma
- Sexual abuse
- Domestic and family violence
- Relationship issues
- Addiction and substance use
- Eating disorders
- Identity exploration
- Neurodiversity
- Parenting and family issues
- Vicarious trauma
- Coping with major life challenges including health concerns.
It is important to note that these are only a few examples, and that people seek counselling for a variety of reasons. Every individual’s needs and experiences are unique.”
Why would you recommend support workers make use of the counselling services on the Mable Wellbeing Platform?
“Like seeking medical care when feeling unwell, or seeing a physiotherapist for a physical injury, everyone can benefit from engaging with a counsellor for their mental health.
To be able to support others, we must first tend to ourselves. This means practising self-care and self-compassion, and seeking support when needed.
One aspect that I truly appreciate about our service is our versatility and ability to support a wide range of needs — our team consists of professionals with diverse specialisations, allowing us to offer comprehensive support and evidence-based intervention for our clients. Whether clients are seeking support for couples counselling, parenting, neurodiversity, or the effects of traumatic stress on the brain and body, we are well-equipped to provide the necessary support.”
If someone was feeling sceptical about seeking counselling, what advice would you give to encourage them?
“It is completely understandable for someone to feel sceptical about seeing a counsellor. Opening up to an unknown person and sharing your private life can be a daunting and vulnerable experience.
In saying that, taking the leap of faith can be incredibly courageous and a transformative experience.”
Take time to find the right counsellor
“Just like finding a compatible partner, it’s important to find a counsellor who understands and resonates with you. Remember, counselling is a collaborative process, and finding the right fit is fundamental for a thriving therapeutic journey.
My suggestion would be to start with an initial session to get a sense of the clinician’s approach and discuss any reservations. This can help build rapport and trust, and relieve some of the uncertainty.
Take your time, ask questions and trust your instincts.”
Remember that counselling is confidential
“In the initial session, clients are fully informed of duty of care, mandatory reporting, and privacy and confidentiality. The information shared will be kept private. This can help alleviate concerns about personal information being disclosed.
Counselling is a safe space
Most importantly, counselling is a safe and non-judgemental space where one can be their most vulnerable, and express their thoughts, feelings and concerns, without judgement.
While it is natural to feel sceptical about engaging with a counsellor, it is important to approach the decision with an open mind. I encourage individuals to consider the potential benefits of counselling, such as gaining a fresh perspective, developing healthier coping mechanisms, and navigating life’s ups and downs.
Being human can be hard! Be extra kind to yourself, practice self-compassion and care for yourself as you would for a loved one. You are worthy of investing time and energy into your mental health and wellbeing.”
Get free and confidential counselling on 1300 361 008. Available 24/7. Login to the Wellbeing Platform to access resources and exclusive discount offers.
