A Counseling Option:

( 503 944-5032

NW Portland, OR

Debbie Bensching, Clinical Social Worker

* MSW * LCSW * ACSW * MSWAC *

"What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us" Ralph W. Emerson

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, money, and energy into the 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, 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.

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 » Over use of food, sex, alcohol, or substances to avoid or numb » Major life changes, difficult decisions pending, difficulty making decisions »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  »

How does Counseling Work? This is difficult to answer in a brief paragraph. The process allows us to examine the most uncomfortable aspects of our life in a safe, confidential setting with a trained professional. It also gives us a neutral person to help sort out our thoughts, feelings, 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, which usually happens over time, desired changes are unlikely. The training a counselor receives gives them extra tools that guide the process. The tools help 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 a Clinical Social Worker? A Social Worker is a trained professional. Social workers are specially trained to do a variety of types of social services. A Social Worker with a MSW or DSW typically has been trained to do some counseling, therapy, case management, or psychotherapy. As therapists, social workers are especially trained in helping people work with their surrounding environments (people and events) and the effects it has on them as an individual.

What do all the Letters Mean? Social Workers may have a Bachelors degree (BSW), Masters degree (MSW), or a Doctorate degree (DSW) in social work. Other letters that are commonly seen reflect certification or licensure. Here are some of the more common: LCSW-licensed clinical social worker, ACSW-academy of certified social workers, MSWAC-masters of social work addictions counselor, LPC-licensed professional counselor.

Contact Information:

	Telephone: 503 944-5032
	Location: 1942 NW Kearney Street, Suite 32
	Email: debbie@counselingoption.com

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