By Tadgh, Gambling Harms Counsellor at Ara

In this blog, I want to share what it’s really like to work as a counsellor supporting people affected by gambling harms. It’s a role that’s challenging, humbling, and full of powerful moments of connection and growth. Here’s a glimpse into my journey.

The Early Days

I started my role as a trainee counsellor at Ara Recovery 4 All after 20 years working in addiction and recovery services. Those early days feel like a long time ago now. I remember sitting in training sessions, shadowing experienced colleagues, and nervously preparing for my first one-to-one sessions. It was really important for me to get it “right”.

Over the years, I’ve learned that there’s no single “right way” to support someone in recovery. Every person who accesses our services brings their own story, their own pain, and their own spark of hope, even if they can’t see it yet.

Learning to Just Be

As a counsellor, it’s not about offering quick fixes or telling someone what to do. It’s about creating a safe, compassionate space where individuals can explore their own thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I have learned that being fully present, listening without judgement, and holding space without rushing in is often far more powerful than telling people what they should do.

True healing happens when clients feel seen, heard, and empowered to find their own way forward. My role as a Counsellor isn’t to lead clients out of the shade, but to sit with them in it, until they are ready to move toward the light on their own terms.

Sometimes that means sitting in silence, holding space while someone searches for the words to express their feelings or fear. Other times it means celebrating victories: a week of no gambling, reconnecting with a partner who’s been affected by their gambling, or even just turning up to a session when it felt too hard to talk.

The Difficult Moments and the Beautiful Ones

There are tough days in this work. Days when I see people weighed down by the grip of gambling, doubting they have the ability to break free. Those moments can be deeply heavy. Learning to be with that can be hard for clients.

But then there are the powerful, uplifting moments. The ones where a client starts to recognise their own strength. A “lightbulb moment”, where they see that they do have the ability to change.

Both of these moments remind me why I became a counsellor.

What I’ve Learned at Ara

My role as a counsellor at Ara has taught me so much about others and about myself. I’ve learned to listen, without judgement. I’ve learned that recovery isn’t linear. It’s full of ups and downs, and that’s okay.

And I’ve learned how important it is to take care of my own wellbeing too, so I can show up fully for the people I support at Ara, both clients and colleagues.

Why I Enjoy Being a Counsellor at Ara

Being a counsellor in a recovery service isn’t easy, but it’s deeply rewarding. I feel honoured to be trusted with people’s stories, to witness their ability to bounce back, and to play even a small part in their recovery journey.

If there’s one thing I’ve continued to learn, it’s that recovery is always possible. It takes time, courage, and support. But I see that possibility every single day in each client who contacts the service.

Need help or know someone who does?

If you or someone you care about is affected by gambling harms, Ara’s gambling services are here to help. You can make a referral in just a few steps, or find out more about how we support individuals and families throughout their recovery journey.