I have a real passion for counseling. That was true when I finished my graduate training, and it has become even more true throughout the years, as I've journeyed with clients into spaces of inner peace, healing, and wholeness. My work is SUCH a privilege and joy! I may be biased, but I think everyone could benefit from spending some time with a good professional counselor. Here are a few reasons why --
1. A truly safe place to talk. Professional counselors abide by confidentiality rules that are clearly laid out for you in the beginning. We take confidentiality very seriously. We’re also not judging you as you tell your story. Really. You can say anything, and we won’t be surprised or offended or value you any differently. Why is it important to have a safe place to talk? Growth really only happens when you’re honest. And the more honest you are, the better it is!
2. Relationship where the other person is actually trained to listen. Maybe that sounds weird, but I bet the majority of people easily go through most days without anyone really listening to them. The kind of listening where the other person puts away everything to concentrate on understanding who you are and what you’re saying. It’s the kind of reflective listening that even helps you understand yourself better. I like to imagine it’s what Jesus would do – the sweetness of being fully known and embraced is truly a gift from God!
3. Understand your brain. Professional counselors are educated about how the brain works (some more than others, so ask if it isn’t clear). That’s important because your brain is so vital in controlling your experience. The more you understand it, the more you can help it change.
4. Experience and learn tools for healing and change. Sometimes psychology gets a bad rap in Christian circles, and I totally understand why. The foundation of humanistic psychology is at odds with Christianity. But let’s be careful not to throw the baby out with the bath water! Broadly speaking, psychology is the science of the mind, including mental states and processes. God created our minds, and he made them intricate and beautiful. The closer look that psychology gives us can be informative and healing. Add spiritual understanding and tools into the mix, and you’ve got a really powerful ministry for whole-person healing (more on that in future posts!)
5. Someone objective, dedicated and trained to help you examine your life. The objective stance that professional counselors take is invaluable. We’re not biased when we hear your story, and that makes it easy for us to see and point things out from a different perspective. We’re also really good at seeing patterns and underlying issues in your life – stuff that you may not be aware of.
6. Strengthen your connection with God. Ok, so this one may not always happen. But if you choose a good professional Christian counselor, it will! We pay attention to your mind and spirit together. Often there are things in your life that, once addressed, will allow you to draw nearer to God. It’s about turning the lights on so that Jesus can shine in all the corners of your being.
7. Learn social/communication/coping skills from someone trained to teach them. Everyone can benefit from this one. You don’t know what you don’t know. Professional counselors are prepared to meet you where you are and teach you how to change.
8. Time out for reflection. People are busy, and counseling can be a great time to stop and breathe for an hour. Especially if you meet with a Christian counselor, that time can turn into a sacred space to hear from the Holy Spirit as well.
9. Referrals to other professionals if you need them. Professional counselors are usually networked with other professionals (doctors, chiropractors, nutritionists, etc.). We are committed to giving you the best care, so we gladly refer you when we see that it might be helpful.