Knowing Where To Turn
At some point in our lives, most people feel this way, but feel reluctant to seek professional help.
Most individuals wouldn’t hesitate to seek help for a serious physical illness, but are reluctant to seek out a Therapist or Counselor. Either they feel intimidated or ashamed and prefer instead to seek help from a friend or family member; or they feel that the time commitment and cost of therapy would be prohibitive.
Unfortunately, sometimes the advice we receive from friends or family, though well intended, may not provide the relief or help we really need. A skilled Therapist can provide professional care that is based on evidence-based practice and several proven methods of therapy that can be employed to provide effective treatment for individuals, couples, and families. Most therapists are required to have at least a Masters Degree and have met state licensing requirements of ethics, experience and education, including required annual continuing education to keep them current on the latest treatment methods.
Gone are the days when individuals were afraid to tell friends they were seeking help from a Psychotherapist or Counselor. Today, it has become much more accepted to schedule personal time with someone to talk through your most difficult and private issues, knowing that a trained professional will listen to those concerns in a safe, friendly and nonjudgmental atmosphere. Also, some therapists will work with their clients on a sliding rate scale to make therapy affordable.
Many individuals and couples have found that getting long overdue professional help has not only given them new tools in coping with difficult personal relationships, but also helped them to be more productive at work and avoid or eliminate certain medical conditions brought on by depression, stress or worry. Plus, studies have shown that therapy in combination with medication can be more effective than medication alone. Your counselor can coordinate with your physician.
Some of the most common reasons to seek help from a mental health professional are: Depression, Anxiety, Grief and Loss, divorce or relationship concerns, dysfunctional family relationships, addictions, Anger Management, Bi-Polar or Personality Disorders, Adult Bullying and dealing with workplace conflict. Many adults also seek help for dealing with Procrastination or for Assertiveness Training as well as a myriad of other personal or mental health concerns.
Look for a therapist or counselor that you feel not only demonstrates professional competence, but provides a comfortable, confidential, and relaxed environment. Don’t wait; there are many qualified therapists available to give you the help you need. You and your family are worth it!
