MORE than 20 interventions were made last year by Girvan's counselling support unit to help vulnerable adults in the community.

Girvan Town Team has teamed up with the South Carrick Community Learning Partnership to develop a support point in the area.

The charity is called mid-life MOT and aims to be a motivational resource to adults in Girvan and the surrounding villages who are struggling and need someone to talk to about the issues they face.

They can also use the Town Team's Scottish Charity Number SC046542 in order to get help. The service is open to everyone who can be assisted through the partnership who provide a ‘whole life’ complementary approach to positive outcomes including employment.

At a recent meeting held in Girvan Town House members of the town team discussed the significant progress the initiative made last year. 

 It was minuted that over 20 interventions were made during the year for both those in employment and those unemployed. The interventions resulted in the formation of c.v.s and advice on

interview techniques. A number of the clients gained alternative employment during 2016.

The aim of the service is to provide therapy that allows a person to talk about their problems and feelings in a confidential and dependable environment.

A counsellor is trained to listen with empathy (by putting themselves in the other person shoes). They can help vulnerable adults deal with any negative thoughts and feelings they have.

Sometimes the term "counselling" is used to refer to talking therapies in general, but counselling is also a type of therapy in its own right.

Counselling aims to help those struggling deal with and overcome issues that are causing emotional pain or making them feel uncomfortable.

It can provide a safe and regular space for them to talk and explore difficult feelings. The counsellor is there for support and act in a respectful manners. 

They won't usually give advice, but will help clients find their own insights into and understanding personal problems.

During counselling sessions, recipients will be encouraged to express their feelings and emotions. By discussing concerns, the counsellor can help their client gain a better understanding of feelings and thought processes, as well as identifying ways of finding solutions to problems.