What Is IDCS?

The service was set up in 1985 at the request of the Bishops of the North West dioceses. It provides professional and confidential counselling for individuals, couples and colleagues; independent of the diocesan structures, but which has their support. Supervision of the counsellors' work is financed by grants from the diocesan bishops.

The counsellors give their time voluntarily, and most undertake their IDCS work from their own homes. Thus clients are asked to travel to sessions, but this is the only cost incurred during counselling.

Who Is It For?

The service is provided specifically for clergy of the Church of England who live in the North West dioceses, their families and Church Army personnel. Within the remit we work with clergy, single or married, couples, clergy spouses, and children (usually over 18 years of age).

We work with those training for the ministry and their families. We are unable to offer counselling to readers or other members of the laity.

Issues We Can Cover

Marriage breakdown, separation & divorce, stress within families, work related stress, relationship difficulties, individual development, loss & bereavement, addiction, sexual orientation, colleague relationships, childhood abuse, reaction to trauma.

Colleagues Working Together

We work with two clergy colleagues to enable them to reflect upon their working relationship, identify potential or actual difficulties and seek to find mutually acceptable solutions.

But remember, counselling isn't just for crises! Don't hesitate to use us - we may be able to help.

The Counsellors

All members of the IDCS team are trained and experienced counsellors. However, some have specific specialisms, and it may be that after an initial meeting, the counsellor will recommend referring on to someone with a special skill for further counselling.

Confidentiality

The IDCS is an organisational member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. All counsellors abide by the ethical code of practice for the BACP. Meetings with your counsellor are completely confidential except in very exceptional circumstances such as where there is a risk of serious harm to you or to others.

How Do I Find A Counsellor?

Either contact the Team Supervisor who will suggest a counsellor to you or contact one of the counsellors directly to arrange a first meeting.We can usually respond rapidly to any requests for counselling,but it may take a little longer if you wish to see a particular counsellor.

How Long Does The Counselling Usually Last?

Counselling usually lasts for a number of sessions. Each session is about an hour, and the number and frequency of the sessions will be agreed between you and your counsellor. There is no limit to the number of sessions offered. We find the majority of issues can be worked through within two or three months, but issues such as abuse in childhood may need much longer.

To get started download our leaflet and see what counsellors are available.

Download The Leaflet

Download our leaflet.