A path to self-discovery
My Counseling Philosophy
I think of “being in counseling” as being on a path to self-discovery. In counseling, you are the focus, the most important person in the room. Whether you’re starting because of a specific issue, or because of a general discontentment that is undirected and vague, the process remains one of self-examination, self-discovery and even, enlightenment.
Counseling is private. In fact, confidentiality is part of every therapist’s HIPPA agreement, as well as being one of the golden rules of therapy.
♦ About Me
Who Needs Counseling and Why?
Although people often seek counseling during times when they’re so low they don’t know where else to turn, or what else to do, it is equally true that people use counseling when moving through difficult situations or simply, to gain self-understanding.
Sometimes, we aren’t sure why we experience some emotions, seemingly without cause. For instance, a person who angers easily and is often told to “take it easy” or “just chill”, might seek counseling to discover why they have that short fuse. Or even, unexplained sadness. Perhaps there is an inability to move ahead with one’s life after divorce, death of a loved one, or a move to new area, or even, something not specific but vague, as though a cloud is over you and covers you with a sadness you don’t understand. Even something we think of as positive, like a new relationship or a new job, can lead to great stress and unexpected coping difficulties.
Okay, I probably need some therapy.
Now what?
Once you’ve decided to take the plunge into therapy, you’re faced with yet another, possibly even more daunting decision; how to choose a therapist. So, here’s some advice about that.
The relationship between client and therapist is uniquely intimate and therefore, requires the client to have a great deal of trust in someone they don’t actually know. I suspect this is the main reason for some people not seeking therapy. It is a daunting prospect.