"Counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse individuals, families, and groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals."- The American Counseling Association
If you are on this site, you may be wondering if therapy can help you, your child or other loved one, or your family through a difficult transition. Going through a struggle or crisis is painful enough without opening yourself up to a complete stranger! So, before you take that step of calling or walking into an office, let's look at some of the benefits of therapy.
A qualified counselor:
- will have a neutral, objective, outside perspective because he/she is not personally (emotionally) involved in your current situation. - can help you identify "blind spots" or defense mechanisms that prevent you from seeing potential solutions. - has the education and experience of helping others deal with similar issues, and can confidently and lovingly challenge you to move into a better space, personally and relationally. - will be a non-judgmental, encouraging support for you and/or your family, and will join you in your healing journey. - will have the knowledge and insight into issues and can help you explore options and potential outcomes while helping you uncover hidden strengths. - can assist you in making healthier choices that lead you on the path of peace, confidence, clarity and healing.
Some benefits of counseling can be: - Increased peace - Increased understanding of own self-worth - Increased ability to set appropriate boundaries - Greater confidence - Better relationships - Awareness / Insight - Ability to manage stress - Increased inter-relatedness and intimacy - Reduced fear and/or anxiety - Decrease in depressive symptoms - Resolution of trauma or grief - Reduced / processed anger - Ability to assertively express needs and wants - Desire to pursue goals - Increased hope for the future