Counselingoption

~ Augustine Mandino

Frequently Asked Questions

Some Answers

What is Counseling? Therapy? Psychotherapy?

In professional circles we acknowledge differences between these terms. Most of the general population does not. When applied exclusively counseling focuses primarily on defining problems, problem solving, decision making, educational information and guidance or advice. Psychotherapy applied exclusively involves in-depth analysis of an individual’s psychological makeup through the application of analytic therapies. Many professionals do both, which is part of the reason why most people do not distinguish between the terms. I use both in my work, which allows me to taylor my approach to meet the needs of each person. I generally use the term therapy.

Therapy is a very effective process that assists in developing skills and healing sources of pain that help us to manage life circumstances. It helps in making choices that lead to a more fulfilling life style. Just like getting in shape physically it requires work and a willingness to face our pain and discomfort. It is easy to avoid dealing with difficult issues in our lives just like it is easy to avoid exercise. Although it sometimes seems backward, avoiding our pain usually creates much more pain than the original problem. Fortunately you don't have to face all your pain at once or all alone.

	Is Counseling Right For Me? counseling can help most anyone who is open to being "psychologically minded", is motivated to work for desired changes, and is willing to put the time, energy, and money into the process. We create change it doesn't create itself. We all have great healing abilities within us. Learning what they are and how to develop them is part of the therapy process. If there is no belief in or commitment to the process then it probably won't be helpful. If you are willing to be honest with yourself, take ownership of the problems and keep going even when you think you are failing in facing life's challenges, there is great hope for improvement and desired change. Therapy cannot change genetics however there is much in life that affects us that is not that cut and dry.

	How does Counseling Work?
	The process allows us to examine all aspects of our life in a safe, confidential setting with a trained professional. It gives us a neutral person to help sort our thoughts, feeling, behaviors and choices. The safety the atmosphere provides is essential to revealing the most private aspects of our life that we are uncomfortable admitting. Without this total self-disclosure and taking ownership of the difficulties we are having, which usually happens over time, desired changes are unlikely. The training a counselor receives gives them extra tools that guide the process of helping you help yourself. The tools pull out clarity and understanding that is difficult to achieve on our own or with a friend. The specific approach used by an individual counselor depends on their theoretical orientation.

What is Counseling? Therapy? Psychotherapy?
	Support and direction from a trained professional
	Skill building and learning.
	Personal empowerment for increased success and satisfaction in life.

What Experiences indicate Therapy could be helpful?

These experiences indicate therapy can be helpful. You may wish to consider these in your decision to seek counseling. » Frequent anxiety, worry, depression, hopelessness, lack of motivation, mood swings » Excessive guilt, shame, frustration or irritability or anger outbursts » Over use of food, sex, alcohol, or substances to avoid or numb » Major life changes, difficult decisions pending, difficulty making decisions or being indecisive »Pattern of failure with relationships, jobs, friends, or self-defeating behaviors »Problems after a traumatic event or loss of a significant relationship »Feeling overwhelmed or confused with life events which may or may not include a crisis »Any thoughts, feelings, or behaviors that involve the risk of harm to oneself or another person »Routine dissatisfaction with your relationships, parenting, employment, etc. »Inability to know what you want or need or to identify what feelings you are having » knowing you have more ability then you can demonstrate; under performing » Desire to change patterns or improve your performance in any area

The process allows us to examine all aspects of our life in a safe, confidential setting with a trained professional. It gives us a neutral person to help sort our thoughts, feeling, behaviors and choices.