As more people learn of Care to Change and the ways in which our professionals change lives, I increasingly find myself being pulled aside in hallways, at church, in stores, and even in restaurants.
Most people have a “real quick question” for me. Usually, it’s about a struggle they’re experiencing. And, nine times out of ten, they’ll add something like, “It’s not THAT serious. I mean, I don’t need therapy or anything.”
Professional counselors are well aware of the stigma associated with going to counseling. That’s why we put a privacy exit at the back of Care to Change’s building. It gives people a way to leave a session without having to worry about running into someone they know in the lobby (forgetting, of course, that the other individual is probably also in our office for a reason).
There’s also a stigma that people who think they need counseling must be weak, needy or even cowardly. Well-adjusted people should be able to solve their problems on their own, right? Having to reach out for help is a deficiency in character, isn’t it?
Absolutely not! I can tell you without hesitation that the people who come to see me and my colleagues for counseling are among the bravest individuals I’ve ever met. First, they were brave enough to look themselves in the mirror and admit that something in their lives wasn’t perfect. Then they had to be brave enough to admit that they lacked the ability or knowledge to fix it on their own. Next, they had to have the courage to seek out a counselor to help them. They had to have the guts to walk through our front door. And finally, they had to sit down across from (sometimes) a perfect stranger, share the most difficult and painful thoughts about their lives, and have the courage to ask for help with the next step.
Most know that we’re not going to tell them everything is okay. We’re going to help them look at their situations in different ways and come face-to-face with problems and issues most people would prefer to ignore or pretend doesn’t exist. We’re going to help them make tough choices and stand up to whoever or whatever is keeping them from living the life God meant then to have. At every step, in every session, and in every moment between sessions, their courage will be put to the test. Make no mistake. Counseling is courageous, and brave people seek help.
The reality is, we all have flaws. We all have self-doubts. We all carry regrets and we all wrestle with relationships from time to time. It’s part of what makes us human. Saying “I don’t need therapy or anything” is actually a way of saying that we’re not ready or are too afraid to confront what’s keeping us from whole-hearted, purpose-filled lives.
Are you letting your fears keep you from moving forward? Do you think seeking counseling might embarrass you? Do yourself a favor, and stop. You owe it to yourself and those who love you to be brave. I know it’s hard to summon up the courage, but I promise you it’s worth the effort. Know what else? You’re worth the effort, too. Don’t hesitate another moment. Ask us for the help you need. Contact us today.
Who is April Bordeau?
What is Care to Change?
What makes Care to Change different?
How do I know if I need counseling?
What will my first session be like?
What about my privacy?
What does Care to Change think about their clients?