Is there any risk?
Friday, March 9, 2007 at 06:56AM Many people have concerns about what might happen if they start exploring their own psychological make-up. Some worry that a counsellor or psychotherapist might cause emotional harm or read their thoughts. Others fear that they would become controlled by the therapist and be made to do things they didn’t want to do.
It’s natural to be a little apprehensive about something new. That’s why it is important to meet, discuss any concerns, and ask questions before making a final decision. Ask the therapist what training they have had, what supervision they receive, and what is their code of ethics.
The fact is, counsellors and psychotherapists don’t do anything to anyone. They are also trained and experienced in supporting people who are feeling apprehensive, lost, scared, sad or vulnerable.
The other way to look at it is to ask what risks are there in not seeking professional help? We are increasingly aware of the links between psychological and physical health. Keeping a lid on things is not usually the best way to handle emotional issues. In the long run, we may suffer more profound effects such as physical aches and pains, lack of energy, stress, depressed libido or even ‘mental breakdown’.
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Richard Clark, MFT | Comments Off |