Many people like the idea of counseling and support the increase in mental health awareness that’s happening in our society. They know people need help to better understand themselves. People need guidance and tools. People have blind spots that everyone else can see except them. They know counseling can be beneficial for others – but not them.
Maybe this describes you.
Don’t worry, this is a normal response.
It’s very hard to admit to yourself in this self-sufficient, independence-driven society that you might need help.
Think about all the times in your life, though, that you don’t have any problem asking for help. When your car makes a strange noise you take it to the mechanic. If you notice a strange lump on your body you visit the doctor to get it inspected. When your water heater at home doesn’t seem to be heating things up enough you call the plumber.
Mental health is no different. It’s part of being human that all of us experience. The part that’s unique is that counseling looks at what’s inside of you rather than your physical body. The funny thing is, our thoughts and emotions are connected to our physical bodies so often when we have physical issues they’re the result of something internal.
Okay, so let’s get down to the real question you came here for. How do you know if you need counseling?
Here are several common signs it’s time to start online therapy:
- People around you see something in/about you that is negative but you cannot see it
- You know you come off in a negative way to others but don’t know why
- You have certain experiences (such as a narcissistic parent) that have affected you and you’ve worked hard to not be that way yourself, but worry you might be more similar than you’d like to admit
- You’re seeing the same patterns come up in your life or relationships over and over
- You can’t seem to figure out how to stop a specific behavior or pattern of behavior (such as pornography use)
- Always feeling hopeless, helpless, and despairing about your ability to change
- You feel confident about your ability to change but need some objective guidance
Getting help can do so much for you! Seeing a counselor can help you see what you cannot see, understand it from a more objective perspective, and give you tools to work through it effectively.
Why can’t you do it on your own? Why do you need a counselor?
These are great questions! It’s so much easier to see other people more clearly than we can see ourselves. This is a part of being human. We (at Life Discovery) will even tell you the same thing about ourselves as counselors! Even though we have a lot of self-awareness and practice mindfulness, we understand we can’t see ourselves as well as we’d like.
Getting feedback and an outside perspective on us is nothing to be ashamed of. It’s really just a relationship with someone who’s committed to caring for you and serving your ultimate good. First, you can ask questions in counseling you might feel too afraid or insecure to ask friends or family. Then, you can open up about things that others wouldn’t know what to do with if they heard from you. Finally, you can be completely transparent and yet be completely accepted at the same time.
Within the safety of the therapeutic relationship, you can examine yourself honestly with the support of your counselor. In fact, this might even be easier in online therapy.
You can see yourself differently and learn how to relate better in relationships. You can overcome attachment issues as you learn how to accept your counselor’s acceptance of you. Finally, you can let go of anger and defensiveness as your counselor challenges you without criticizing or rejecting you. Ultimately finding clarity and peace inside.
We hope you’ll consider whether or not it’s time for you to start counseling, and consider working with us on your journey.
BEGIN ONLINE THERAPY IN OREGON
Our Clackamas and Hillsboro based counselors are excited to work with you, wherever you are in Oregon. Anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, and conflict do not have to rule your life. We can help you get back on track in a way that aligns with your faith and values. When you are ready to start online Christian counseling in Oregon, follow these simple steps:
- Learn about our therapy team in Hillsboro and our caring counselors in Clackamas
- Schedule an appointment with your preferred therapist, or contact us with questions
- Begin feeling more calm, confident, and peaceful, from the comfort of your home.
OTHER MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES AT LIFE DISCOVERY COUNSELING IN OREGON
No matter what you want to cover in online therapy, we know that you may have more concerns to talk about. Or, you might know someone else who does. If you are in Clackamas, Happy Valley, Damascus, or Hillsboro, we can help you in person at one of our comfortable therapy clinics. Christian counseling is the cornerstone of our approach to therapy. Not only do we see adults, but children in counseling too. We also work with depression treatment, anxiety therapy, trauma therapy and PTSD treatment, relationship issues, marriage problems, and postpartum counseling. No matter where you are in the state, we can provide the support you need. Once you’re ready to start, we’re ready to meet you. Let’s connect!