Why Counseling? Series Part 3: What to Expect During the Counseling Process

Welcome to Part 3 of our Why Counseling? series.  So far we've spent time talking about counseling misconceptions and why counseling is a good idea.  Today we are going to talk about what you can expect during the counseling process.   I think this topic is EXTREMELY relevant especially with the negative label that is often given to attending counseling.  The following four points are honest and but full of encouragement as counseling might be the next step for you in your life.

1. Counseling is about you.  This one may be obvious, but your counseling process is about you.  It is about your struggles, deepest fears, relationship mishaps, career failures, insecurities and hurt.  It is focused and can be intense, but is a unique time unlike any other space you get to share and be met with no-biased, judgement or shame.  It is your story, your journey and your process.  In counseling you practice the courage and vulnerability to let another in to difficult places, but find a beautiful treasure in healing and letting go.

2. Counseling is hard.  The fact of the matter is we don't like to be uncomfortable.  We are all by nature creatures of habit and creatures of comfort.  The counseling process can be uncomfortable in the beginning as you get to know your counselor, but usually this discomfort is short lived as the counselor and client relationship matures.  We also know that when we make uncomfortable changes in our lives growth happens.  One of my favorite author's Brene' Brown writes about vulnerability and shame, two things I believe come up for almost everyone within the counseling process.  She says, "Vulnerability is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy, accountability and authenticity."  All of these aspects of vulnerability likely come up in the counseling process and it can be difficult, but extremely rewarding.

3. Counseling produces results.  Because counseling is effective and produces the results people are looking for life can get worse before it gets better.  Going to counseling is like finally addressing a wound that's maybe been bandaged up for years.  It is the processes of taking the bandage off and giving it what it needs to heal.  Counseling is the process of addressing hurt, wounds, trauma, personal struggles and relationship issues.  When we shed light on these difficult topics it can be initially be extremely difficult, but it is like providing a plant with sun and water - growth soon comes and you will find the change, healing or results you hoped for.  

4. Counseling is powerful.  In our crazy, digital, chronically busy culture counseling is a bit of an anomaly as you sit down for 50 minutes and have meaningful and life giving conversations  that bring healing, restoration and new perspective.  Within the counseling process "ahh-ha" moments are frequent and bring about exciting personal and relational change.

5. Counseling is relational.  Your connection to your counselor provides a unique relationship of healing unlike any other.  As you move through the counseling process your counselor gets to know you in a way most people probably don't.  The client-counselor relationship is a bit unique as the client does the sharing and the counselor listens, provides support and perspective, but does not share much about themselves personally.  Therefore, the relationship is completely focused on you the client. This relationship is unlike any other but can provide an enormous amount of validation, hope and personal enlightenment. 

The counseling process is unique, a little mysterious and so worth it. I hope this series gave you some new insight on the counseling process and dispelled much of the negativity and bizarre media portrayals we are all too familiar with.   If you are tired, worn out or overwhelmed maybe its time to give counseling a try.  Counseling might give you that growing edge to help you get over the hurdles you are facing.  Give us a call we would love to join with you in your journey.  You don't have to do it alone.  

Warmly,

Chelsea

Encounter Counseling offers in-person counseling in Grand Junction and telehealth counseling state-wide in Colorado including Denver, Boulder, Ft. Collins and Colorado Springs.