Frequently Asked Questions

How does counseling help?

It's therapeutic to talk with someone about our concerns. Most of us have probably had the experience of feeling relieved after talking with a friend or family member about something we've been holding in. Our concerns often seem more manageable when we talk about them with someone we trust. And, as we talk, our perspective on the problem often begins to change.

Counseling goes beyond the obvious and helps get us unstuck. Often, we know what we should be doing to help ourselves feel better, but we can't seem to be able to do it. Counseling helps us to work through the obstacles that keep us from doing what we know would be helpful.

Talking with a counselor can also help to:

	Pinpoint problems and understand aspects of the problems that can be improved.
	Identify negative or problematic thinking that contributes to feelings of hopelessness and helplessness, and to develop a more positive outlook.
	Explore the learned behaviors that create or maintain problems.
	Regain a sense of control and pleasure in life.
	Discover our strengths and learn how to use them to improve other areas of our lives.

Isn't going to counseling a sign of weakness?

Nothing could be further from the truth. Change is difficult -- which is why we often avoid it -- and it takes courage to acknowledge a problem or difficulty. Entering counseling is a courageous first step in resolving a problem.

Isn't counseling only for people with serious emotional problems?

Although counseling can be helpful to people who do have serious emotional problems, it's also useful for people with everyday concerns, like adjustment, relationship, or phase of life issues.

Will a counselor give me advice?

By the time many people come to counseling, they've probably already gotten more advice than they can handle. We believe that while a counselor is knowledgeable about the change process, you are the expert on your life. By working with someone who has training and experience with facilitating positive change, you're likely to work more effectively and see results more quickly.

Isn't counseling a last resort?

We don't have to experience a heart attack before we can see a doctor -- it's okay to go if we just don't feel well. The same applies to counseling -- you don't have to have the emotional equivalent of a heart attack to see a counselor. By working with a counselor you can often get back on track more quickly and save yourself a lot of unnecessary distress.

Is counseling confidential?

The foundation of the counseling relationship is trust, and we treat every aspect of the counseling relationship with great care.  All mental health professionals must maintain confidentiality, except as required by law. Please feel free to ask your counselor about confidentiality rules and laws.