Counseling? For Me?

If you've never met with a counselor before to discuss a personal issue, the idea of doing so may seem a little scary.  Here are some things to think about when seeking a counselor's assistant in resolving a life problem.

• First, no two counselors are exactly alike.  Each counselor is unique in personality, background, training, experience, counseling methods and style.  These factors may differ significantly from one counselor to the next.  Many studies have shown for counseling to be effective, an even more important factor than the counselor's methods, philosophy, or training background is the relationship between the client and the counselor.  So, it's important when you meet with a counselor that you experience a comfort level with that person.

• Counseling is a partnership between you and the counselor.  You are the specialist on yourself, your experience and your current life circumstances.  The counselor - with his or her training and experience - is the specialist on people in general.  An effective counseling relationship is dynamic where both client and counselor work together to bring about desired life changes.

• Counseling is confidential.  By all means this includes counseling through EAP services.  Some employees who would like to try counseling may be reluctant to use their EAP.  They may be concerned that their employer might become aware of this (and then somehow their job might be adversely affected).  But employers are not given any information about any employee involved in EAP counseling services unless the employee first authorizes this information to be disclosed. (Sometimes employees want or need their employers to know they are participating in their EAP).

• A first visit to a counselor's office often involves completing initial paperwork.  It is best to arrive a little early the first time to complete this before your session is scheduled to begin.  Most sessions are 45-50 minutes long.

• When you call LMA for an appointment, you will be asked if you are using your EAP.  If you are not using your EAP, it's important to ask your health insurance company beforehand how counseling services are covered under your policy.  You may need to obtain pre-authorization from your insurance company before starting counseling.  Even if pre-authorization is not required, many insurance policies require a co-pay that you are responsible to cover, so it is good to know that beforehand.

• Some common issues addressed in counseling are relationship or family difficulties, work-related conflicts, feeling depressed or anxious, grief issues and substance use.

• Many people try counseling, not necessarily to solve a big problem, but just to feel better about their lives in general.  Perhaps you want to do something you've never done before, like write a book, play the piano, or be more comfortable in social situations.  Counseling can help you visualize goals, overcome persistent obstacles and experience a richer texture of life.

Although each counseling relationship is unique, all counselors have one thing in common - your best interest.  It can take time to build trust, and to experience change.  Be patient.  You have everything to gain.