There have been many TV programs in recent years dealing with the clearance of hoarded homes. While it makes great telly, it sensationalises what is a very real and debilitating problem for lots of people, making it feel more shameful, and often causes a person more anxiety and perpetuates the hoarding behaviours.  Hoarding a home takes years of repeated behaviours of accumulating and not being able to let go of possessions, even those that are broken, old or apparently useless. It's a many faceted problem and is not fixed overnight. 

Most people with hoarding behaviours find it is a lifelong battle of mind over behaviour. Quite often people with these behaviours find they started in childhood and were made worse when life events such as traumas and bereavements effected their ability to cope. It then doesn't take long before a home can be cluttered and just too overwhelming to deal with, and things spiral from there. This can feel confusing and shameful, the phrase 'why can't I deal with this like everyone else?' is something I've heard a lot.

Counselling can provide an understanding of what is going on for you and why you are struggling to cope with your current situation. It can help you to push through any anxieties about letting go, of making changes and may even address past traumas, bereavements and losses. The aim is to get you unstuck. 

Declutter coaching is the practical side. I use an approach that gently encourages you to face your fears about letting go, seeing where your resistances lie when you do try to declutter with non-judgemental support, as well as providing some practical advice. The aim is to get you to a point where you can declutter and sort for yourself. This may take a long time so its important to celebrate the little wins, small goals achieved and any kind of progress you make along the way.