In my last post, I discussed how mental health maintenance was important for everyone. Counseling and therapy were identified as effective ways to develop or strengthen coping skills during stressful times. A few people who read that post mentioned to me that they understood that they should take time for themselves or self-evaluate to monitor whether they were overwhelmed or stressed. However, they didn’t understand the benefits of talking with a mental health professional if they have friends and family with whom they can discuss problems.
While friends and family are a source of support, the manner in which support is offered in a professional therapeutic relationship is different. It is important to clarify that therapy and counseling are not intended to replace friendships or family, but rather to enhance these relationships. So, how is talking with a counselor, therapist, or psychologist different that talking with friends, family, or significant others?
- A counseling or therapeutic relationship is not reciprocal. The mental health professional’s job is to focus on a client’s concerns and offer support and encouragement. An appointment with a professional is a client’s time to focus on his or her issues without feeling obligated to focus on the issues or successes of the person with whom he or she is speaking.
- The counselor is a trained professional who has spent many years learning about different ways to help clients cope with issues.
- The therapeutic relationship is confidential. While one certainly hopes that friends and family will respect the privacy of loved ones, a therapist is ethically and legally bound by confidentiality. Unless a client is an immediate danger to themselves or others, conversations between a therapist and client will be private.
- The therapist exists outside of the normal flow of the client’s life, and therefore has the perspective of an outsider. Because of the nature of the therapeutic relationship, the therapist will not be angry, offended, or judge a client for statements made during a session.
While a therapist will never and should never replace a client’s supportive relationships with friends and family, it can be helpful to have an objective outsider who will be available for a set time and at a reliable location regularly to help with issues. Consider these benefits when weighing whether therapy or counseling might be an option for you or someone in your life.
Until my next post, spend time with your friends and family. Thanks for visiting!
