Work and Wellbeing: How Counselling can help

Sometimes improving work starts with rediscovering life.

Work-related stressors are one of the most common reasons people seek counselling. It’s not surprising - work naturally creates demanding environments and takes up a huge part of our lives. On top of that, our financial stability often hinges on our jobs, adding another layer of pressure. When clients come to explore work-related challenges, they often speak about stress, burnout, and difficulty maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Counselling offers a confidential space to unpack these experiences, reconnect with what matters most, and explore more sustainable ways of living and working.

In my experience, it’s often only when we step back - fully removed from the day-to-day pressures of the workplace - that we begin to reflect more deeply on who we are and how we want to live. I once worked with a client who initially came to counselling to address work pressures. Over time, he realised his frustrations weren’t just about the work projects he was facing, but about how work was impacting his time with family and friends, and his enjoyment of life more generally. As we explored what was truly important to him - his values, goals, and interests - the conversation shifted. It became less about juggling tasks and more about creating firmer boundaries with his employer, learning how to switch off after hours, and re-engaging with the parts of his life that brought him meaning.

When we take the time to consider where work fits into our broader life priorities, it becomes easier to decide how much energy we’re willing - or want - to give it. For some, work is a central part of identity, providing personal satisfaction and a sense of purpose. For others, it needs to take a backseat to personal passions, health, or raising young children.

While some level of stress is part of being human, chronic stress - especially when tied to work - can significantly affect both physical and psychological wellbeing. Prolonged stress can drain your sense of meaning and diminish your overall life satisfaction. That’s why prioritising mental health is essential, not optional.

Other work-related concerns that I often see arise in counselling include strained workplace relationships, conflict, or experiences of bullying - all of which can take a serious emotional toll. Some people come feeling lost or unfulfilled, uncertain about their career direction. For others, imposter syndrome or perfectionism can get in the way of the milestones they’re aiming for. Job insecurity, financial pressure, and major transitions such as undergoing a career change - can also be deeply stressful.

If these are challenges you’re facing, I encourage you to take some time out and offer yourself the support you deserve.

I also want to acknowledge that in many high-pressure industries, seeking counselling can feel stigmatising or uncomfortable. If that resonates with you, walk and talk therapy might be worth considering. Being outdoors, away from a clinical setting, can allow people to speak more freely and feel more like themselves. It’s an option many haven’t considered, but with a registered counsellor and the same professional framework as office-based therapy, it can be a surprisingly refreshing alternative for those who have tried - or don't wish to try - traditional settings.

For others, especially those juggling tight schedules or weekday commitments, telehealth sessions may offer a more accessible option. Being able to connect from wherever you are - without needing to travel - makes therapy more flexible and easier to fit into a busy life.

At The Counselling Cove, we’ve created flexible structures - walk and talk sessions, telehealth, and after-hours appointments - to support those who may find traditional counselling hard to access.

If you’re finding that work is affecting your wellbeing and would like to explore what change could look like for you, please don’t hesitate to reach out for a free discovery call or appointment. We're here to support you in creating a more fulfilling and balanced relationship with your work - and your life.

When you find balance between work and life, you bring your best self to both.