Making the decision to see a counselor can be intimidating. There are lots of questions to be answered.
Can I afford it?
Will the counselor I select be a good match for me?
Will it really help or will it be a painful experience?
If you are seeing a counselor for the first time you should call and visit with him. Discuss with him why you would like to see a counselor. Ask about his experience, qualifications and area of expertise. Have him describe his approach to counseling. Discuss any concerns you may have about the process. Don't be afraid to ask about the cost.
A good counselor should be a good listener. He should be able to make you feel at ease. He should be able to work with your struggles without making you feel condemned or belittled.
Counseling is about figuring out where things are going wrong and finding a way to make some changes. Counseling is a partnership between the client and the therapist. A good therapeutic relationship empowers the client to gain insight into his thinking and feeling. The counselor serves as a guide on this journey.
The gains you get from the counseling process are permanent. Rarely do you solve all your problems, but you can make your life more peaceful and more effective.
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