What can counselling help me with?

* Gaining support whilst waiting for a diagnosis, or at diagnosis; support in coming to terms with a diagnosis and in moving forward.

* Helping to develop a personal plan to reduce the affect of symptoms upon your life.

* Help to develop a coping plan to challenge the sense of helplessness, hopelessness, or fear you may be feeling.

* Supporting those who have a condition that is progressive, or those caring for someone with a progressive illness.

* Support for those grieving.

* Looking at your life, your concerns or problems with someone who is able to give you time to speak, take the time to listen to you and help you to identify options.

*If you are in severe crisis and experiencing suicidal thoughts, do consider contacting your doctor for additional support or call the Samaritans as a starting point. They take a call every 12 seconds, and have years of experience dealing with all kinds of people in severe crisis. Samaritans: 08457 909090.