Why Get Counseling?
Individual Counseling is often sought for a number of different reasons, however some of the most common reasons people come to Gateway Counseling in Pocatello include: depression, low self-confidence, drug and alcohol use, relationship problems, family conflict, problems at work, anxiety, decision making, grief, eating disorders, difficulty handling anger, and much more.
Generally speaking if you are questioning if you should obtain Individual Counseling, it is a good indicator that you probably should. Good indicators that you should seek Individual Counseling include having difficulty at work, difficulty concentrating, or increased conflict with loved ones.
Additional reasons to seek Individual Counseling include if you:
- Spend 5 out of 7 days feeling unhappy
- Have feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, or desires for self-isolation
- Cannot sleep at night
- Have lost someone important to you.
- Have lost something important such as a job.
- While taking care of a parent or a child and the idea crosses your mind that you may want to hurt that person
- Have a chronic medical illness
- Can no longer prioritize what is most important
- Can no longer manage your stress
What is Individual Counseling?
Individual Counseling is a collaborative process, in which a relationship is formed between a therapist and a client. As part of the relationship, the therapist acts as a facilitator to help the client to understand him or herself. As such, a good fit between the client and therapist is essential to successful therapy. Counselors seek to help clients overcome personal obstacles and barriers by helping them identify strengths and weaknesses, identify goals, and identify potential solutions to their individual problems. Counselors seek to help clients with their communication, coping skills, and self-concept.
How can I get the most out of Individual Counseling?
- Discuss your goals and expectations with your counselor
- Evaluate how you feel about the counseling relationship, as a good fit between client and therapist is essential to successful treatment
- Actively participate in treatment
- Focus on what is most important to you
- Pay attention to and express your feelings to your therapist
- Be patient, change does not happen overnight
- Regularly ask questions