You, or someone you care about, are asked to see a counselor or therapist. Many questions and ideas are on your mind: Why do I need to see a counselor or therapist? I do not have a problem! There is nothing wrong with me! Does this mean I am crazy? I do not NEED help. What do counselors & therapists DO anyway? What is wrong with me? It can be very confusing. This information is to give a very brief introduction and better understanding of professional counseling & therapy. It is not intended to be a comprehensive definition or explanation.
Why me?
Professional counseling & therapy is a process which empowers individuals to manage their own lives at work, school, or home more effectively. You, or someone you know, may have been asked to see a counselor or therapist by a caring person who is concerned about your health and well-being, or you may have concerns of your own. A professional counselor or therapist does not give advice, does not fix nor cure you. Counselors & therapists help you to face personal issues in a constructive manner. You will be strongly encouraged to explore new ways of thinking and behaving. Understandably, you are likely to feel uncomfortable. However, you are ultimately in charge, and make adjustments at your own pace.
Am I crazy?
No. Seeing a counselor or therapist does not mean you are bad, stupid, or crazy. It may mean you have made a very wise choice. There is a reason for the session. You do not have to wait for a crisis or to be in trouble. Visiting a counselor or therapist is a way of respectfully caring for yourself and receiving professional services from someone with certified education and experience. That is why some of the smartest and busiest people seek assistance. Some may not understand why they always feel angry, anxious, or frustrated, and wish to change. Some want their lives to run more smoothly or to get the most out of it. Counselors & therapists also aid in preventing potential problems you might face. It is a team effort. You need to do your part. Nobody does it alone. You work together with counselors & therapists to help you get to where you want to be in life. However, they cannot do your job for you.
What is MY job?
Expectations depend on individual counselors or therapists. In general, you are expected to activiely participate in a one-on-one or group process designed to meet your specific needs. You may be asked to sign an agreement to a treatment plan for a series of sessions. - Be on time to your appointments. This reflects your commitment to your own health and well-being. - Bring questions. If you feel uncomfortable, then your counselor or therapist needs to know this. Initial reluctance to change is common. Try to cooperate and listen carefully to suggestions. Without risk there is no growth. Do your best to honestly answer questions about personal thoughts and feelings. Try not to give answers because you believe it is what your counselor or therapist wants to hear. Whatever you feel is exactly right for you; however, you may be challenged by new ways of thinking and behaving, and by trusting. It takes courage to change. Sometimes it feels like hard work, and other times it feels easy. Let your counselor or therapist know how it is working for you.
Confidentiality
Counseling & therapy is your personal business. Nobody else needs to know unless you want them to know. What goes on in your session stays there. The only exception is when there is a risk of imminent danger to human life as judged by the counselor or therapist. Much depends on a willingness to trust and to take necessary risks for your own health and well-being. Lasting change takes time. Your progress is evaluated periodically, and appropriate adjustments and recommendations are made when needed.
Helpful Links - email me: jemoyer at angelfire dot com
Counseling Resources on the Net
Al-Anon & Alateen (for families and friends of alcoholics)
The Effectiveness of Psychotherapy
National Institue of Mental Health
Internet Mental Health
John E. Moyer, M.Ed.
Do you have healthy boundaries?
Find A Mental Health Professional
Services for Teens At Risk (STAR) links
World Counseling Network
