what is
individual counseling?
Individual therapy is a process where clients work one-on-one with a trained therapist. The therapist does his or her best to provide a safe, caring, and confidential environment. This is necessary to best explore the individuals feelings, beliefs, or behaviors. Often times the client and therapist will identify aspects of the individuals life that they would like to change, and help them better understand themselves and others. Within the first few sessions you will set personal goals, and begin to work toward desired change.
People go to therapy for different reasons. It can be to find help and learn to better cope with major life circumstances or childhood trauma, to handling depression or anxiety, to seeking personal development and understanding. A client therapist relationship is formed and you may work the therapist for as little as 5 or 6 sessions to as long as several years. This depends greatly on each individual clients unique circumstances and personal goals for therapy.
Talking about your concerns can give a different perspective.
Everyone goes through tough times, and no matter how long you’ve had something on your mind-whether for just a few hours or months-it’s important that you talk to someone about it. You don’t have to confront your setbacks alone. Here are a few of the benefits of talking to someone about how you’re feeling.
Sort through your feelings. Talking about your feelings can help you make sense of them. Sometimes, just verbalizing what is upsetting you to someone you trust can help you sort through your feelings, or make the situation clearer.
Put things in perspective. If you’ve been keeping things to yourself, a situation seem more overwhelming than it actually is. The person you talk with might help you see the situation in a new or different perspective. Someone outside the situation might also be more neutral about what’s going on because the outcome won’t affect him or her personally. The person you speak with might also suggest options that you had not thought about before.
Release tension. Talking through your concerns can also be a great way to vent and release pent-up tension. Just “getting the problem out” can help you feel better. Not only does it feel great, but it can also give you new insights into what’s happening in your life.
Sort through your feelings.
Put things in perspective.
Release tension.
If you’re facing a crisis and need help immediately, you can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
Trained volunteers are available 24/7.