What do you think when you hear the word ‘counseling’?

Many people think about sitting on a couch and their deep thoughts or dreams being analyzed. Other people imagine they will be 'fixed' or given advice about how to fix their lives. 

How does Counseling help?

Counseling enables people, through the help of a trained professional, to identify their goals and potential solutions to problems in their lives.

Who can become a “counselor?

Anybody. Anyone who has a desire to help others grow and an ability to listen.

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Here is some of what we mean by counseling*:

Professional counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse individuals, families, and groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals.

Counseling is a collaborative effort between both the counselor and the client. They work together to identify goals and potential solutions to problems which cause emotional turmoil; seek to improve communication and coping skills; strengthen self-esteem; and promote behavior change and optimal mental health. Ideally, counseling is terminated when the problem (or problems) becomes more manageable or is resolved. 

Visit the American Counseling Association for more about what counseling is.

 

*Some text taken from the American Counseling Association website.