When to Go to Counseling

Many people are not sure when to go to a counselor. A common myth is that you only go if you are crazy, or if things are really bad! Good news! Healthy people go to counseling too! Below is a list of items that a counselor could help with. It does not include everything counselors do but it's a pretty good start. Getting help always takes courage but people rarely regret it in the end. 


If you or some one you love is experiencing:


Transitioning through a major life event such as a big move, divorce, death of a loved one, loss of a job, loss of a relationship etc..
Loss of interest in preferred activities lasting longer than 3 weeks
Relationship problems
Nightmares
High levels or stress
Self cutting 
Suicidal thought, plans, or attempts of any kind
Emotions so strong they are getting in the way of life (like anxiety and depression)
Sudden decrease in job or school performance that lasts longer than a month 
Sudden personality change for the worse that lasts longer than a month
Frequent conflict with peers or authority
Being bullied or doing the bullying 
Excessive sexual behavior 
Any kind of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
Problems with social skills
Anger management
Hearing or seeing things others don't
Impulsive behavior 


The great thing about counseling is it is confidential. If you are hesitant to come because of the stigma around counseling, no worries. Counselors are ethically bound to keep your information a secret.  No one has to know you are there and if you feel like you are not getting anything out of it, you can quit at any time. There are no risks involved.