Why Counseling?

It is a great question! I could provide you with references from research and positive testimonials. I am also sure of there being a handful of those that are opposed to the idea of counseling. But - the important answer to this question is - Counseling Works.

That’s right!! It works. If you are asking this question right now, I am willing to bet there is something currently creating some type of distress. This distress could be at work, between family, with your children, or something to do with a romantic relationship or friendship. Or, maybe you feel lost in life’s transitions as things change. Everybody struggles during one time or another, and it is important to know that counseling works. As a psychologist, I know what does not work.

Avoidance does not work. I like the image of a physical health issue. There seems to be more respect for the treatment of physical health than mental. In some cases, I understand, but sometimes mental and physical health issues coincide. The longer you delay treatment on a physical health problem, the worse it could get. You might even recover as “time heals all wounds.” The problem is you might be able to re-injure that particular area again and again. It becomes sensitive or prone to injury.

The same could be said for mental health. The longer you delay in treatment the more prone you are to making this moment in your life more long-standing. Medication may help but it is not an answer. It is well documented that medication alone does not compare to the benefit of counseling. It’s important that you find help, with the right psychologist, counselor, therapist, or social worker who can challenge and guide you as you learn to understand and work through your difficult struggles.