Life in all its fullness

I accessed the help of the project, along with my 16 year old son, following the sudden death of my husband. On first accessing the support group we were in a dark and lonely wilderness which appeared to be closing in on us and there was no way out.

However, with the Headlight’s support and guidance we slowly and gradually started to find our way out of that wilderness. They have literally been that headlight – guiding us out of the dark wilderness of grief.

My son found out about the Headlight Project and after gathering together my courage I contacted them. This was very difficult for me to do as I imagined everyone would think it has been such a long time from the event I was a lost cause to treat….and I just couldn’t get involved in a group session, it just wasn’t me.

The counsellor was very helpful and we arranged to meet on a one to one session. At the end of our meeting she mentioned that she felt EMDR may help me and explained the principles of the treatment and I agreed to try it. I then went home and searched for internet for information on EMDR but remained very sceptical. The therapist contacted me very quickly and we arranged to meet and start the treatment. She explained the process and what it involved and the effects it would have on me over the period of treatment. Still sceptical but willing to try anything to enable me move on I started EMDR. It was very simple, physically painless but mentally difficult reliving and talking through many upsetting memories but I persevered and after the first treatment the following days I began to feel a weight being lifted. The second treatment I felt so much better after all those years of enduring episodes of sadness I suddenly felt I could rationalise my thoughts and accept them without feeling guilt or immense grief. I required 2 session but was informed if I needed further sessions or just needed to talk I could get in contact with the therapist and counsellor anytime.

So from a sceptic I can now state that I have never felt so comfortable with myself. My one regret is that this charity was not available to me and my sons 13 years ago it might have saved a lot of sadness and anger. The counsellors were so professional and understanding I am so pleased I gathered my courage together to contact them…they have given back to me something I lost many years ago….peace. Thank You.