When an illness is diagnosed, a lot attention can be focussed on the medical treatment and practicalities and the emotional effects may be ignored.

Illnesses such as Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, M.E. (often referred to as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome) and Cancer can be life-changing. They can affect patients, their families, and their friends alike.

Each individual’s situation is different and everyone reacts differently. Counselling can help by providing a safe space to talk through thoughts and feelings relating to both the emotional and physical effects.

Cancer can pose many challenges, and being able to speak to someone not personally involved can prove very helpful. People may well feel bombarded with medical information and choices at the same time as trying to come to terms with the diagnosis. There are often decisions to be made about treatment while still trying to juggle with day-to-day life.

I have a paramedical background, having originally trained as a therapeutic radiographer, and over many years have worked extensively helping cancer patients and their loved ones cope with the impact of cancer.

If you are affected by any life-affecting illness – as patient, relative or friend – and would like someone to talk to, please do contact me.