Monday, April 4, 2016

Lessons I've Learned from Counseling

Before I decided to become a mental health counselor, I myself had undergone counseling on a couple of different occasions. First, as a child. I had a bit of trouble making friends and my parents took me to a counselor. Years later, as a young adult, I saw a counselor to help me with depression. I no longer see a counselor, though sometimes I think that it may be a good thing to do once in a while. I am able to manage depression myself using what I have learned from counseling along with my much stronger faith in God and prayer. Here are some things I learned from counseling.

- Every little thing that goes wrong is not the end of the world. Learn to choose your battles, when to let things go, and how to deal with the disappointments in life and you will be a lot happier. It's not always easy. It takes time. It's worth it.

- Complaining just bums you out more than anything. Stop complaining and do something about it!

- Good counselors are not there to give advice or tell you the answer. Good counselors will guide you to find it for yourself.

- Good counselors do not accuse you or blame you for all of your problems.

- The right counselor can help to empower you, strengthen your resolve, and provide you with tools to help you move on.

It's interesting to be on the other side of the couch, so to speak. But here I am. I'm waiting for the right opportunity to come along and meanwhile I'm continuing to learn all that I can so that I can be an effective counselor in the future.
Thank you for sharing my journey!