Online & Telephone Counsellor
Outside View
Cotton Counselling
Supporting Men to Seek Help Sooner
The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) has launched Outside View, a national campaign focused on encouraging men to access therapy before reaching crisis point.
Research shows that while many men experience mental health challenges, a significant number delay seeking professional support until things feel overwhelming. In fact, 70% of men say they would only consider therapy at breaking point, despite 65% having struggled with their mental health in recent years.
This campaign aims to gently challenge that pattern, highlighting that support can be helpful at any stage, not just in moments of crisis.
Why This Matters
Many men grow up with the belief that they should manage difficulties on their own, or that asking for help may be seen as a weakness. These beliefs can make it harder to reach out, even when support could make a meaningful difference.
At the same time, men are more likely to rely on personal coping strategies such as exercise, hobbies, or distraction. While these can be helpful, they don’t always address the underlying issues.
Speaking with a trained, registered therapist offers something different. An opportunity to gain an “outside view” from someone who is there to listen, understand, and support you without judgement.
What Is an “Outside View”?
An outside view means having a space to explore your thoughts and feelings with someone who is not part of your day-to-day life.
In therapy, this can help you to:
- Understand patterns in your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours
- Make sense of difficult experiences
- Feel heard without pressure or expectation
- Develop healthier ways of coping and moving forward
It’s not about being told what to do. It’s about working together to better understand your experience.
Reaching Men Where They Are
As part of the campaign, BACP has created a unique installation, a therapist’s room placed along a walking route in Dorset. This reflects something many men already do: going for a walk to clear their head.
While opening up to friends can be valuable, professional support can help you go further, especially when things feel stuck, confusing, or overwhelming.
Why Choose a Registered Therapist?
Anyone can call themselves a therapist, which is why it’s important to choose someone registered with a professional body such as the BACP.
Registered therapists:
- Are trained and qualified
- Work to strict ethical standards
- Offer a safe and confidential space
- Are committed to your wellbeing
A Personal Note
As a BACP-registered counsellor, I’m proud to be involved in this campaign. In my work, I’ve supported many individuals, including men who were initially unsure about therapy, to explore their experiences and develop a deeper understanding of themselves.
Seeking support is not a sign of weakness. It can be a meaningful step towards change, growth, and feeling more like yourself again.
Taking the First Step
If you’ve been feeling not quite yourself, or are finding things difficult, you don’t have to wait until things reach a crisis point.
You might consider:
- Reaching out for an initial conversation
- Exploring what therapy could offer you
- Finding a registered therapist you feel comfortable with
You can also learn more about the campaign and access further resources here: https://www.outside-view.co.uk
If you would like to speak with me about starting therapy, feel free to get in touch.
Get in Touch
Feel free to contact me with any questions about how counselling works or to arrange an initial assessment appointment. This session allows us to discuss your reasons for seeking counselling, explore whether it could be helpful for you, and determine if I am the right counsellor to support you.
You can also call me on +44 7506286128 if you would prefer to leave a message or speak to me first. I am happy to discuss any queries or questions you may have prior to arranging an initial appointment.
External Support
Please feel free to have a browse through the websites below for the various organisations offering
Mental Health support and resources.
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