I’m a big believer that everyone could benefit from counseling at some point in their lives. Probably, at multiple points in their lives!
Why do I believe this? Because I know how hard life is – and I know that at some point, we all experience hardship.
We live in a broken world. Sin hurts us, whether it is our own or someone else’s sin. We all have moments in life when we are hurting, struggling, or facing a big transition.
Those are the moments when counseling can be helpful.
Recent Barna Group research shows that 42% of Americans have seen a counselor at some point, finding help and encouragement for exactly these difficult moments in life. Of those who have been to counseling at some point, 94% found it to be a positive experience. Wow! Praise God. Counselors are here to bring hope, encouragement, and help to those in a difficult season of life.
How do you know if counseling would be helpful for you?
If you find yourself struggling with something on a reoccurring basis – a difficult emotion, a problematic relationship, a habit or behavior that is unhelpful – that may be a sign that counseling could be helpful. Talking with friends, families, or your pastor can be a great way to ‘start’ counseling, because many times this fellowship will provide the encouragement and help that we need. But if the problem feels deeper, if you’re finding that your health is impacted or other people are really worried about you, professional counseling may be a helpful next step.
How do you find a good counselor?
It is really important to find someone who is a good fit for you personally. Of course, this will include availability, location, and pricing – but even more than that, this will include finding someone who’s personality and counseling approach feels helpful for you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions of your counselor; you want to make sure this is a helpful, positive experience.
Have you been to counseling before? I hope that if you have, you found it to be a positive experience. And if you’re thinking about counseling now, you can learn more about iHope counseling services right here.
Written by Jessica Hayes
iHope Executive Director
— Barna Group (2018). Americans feel good about counseling. Retrieved from https://www.barna.com/research/americans-feel-good-counseling/.