FREQUENTLY ASKED Questions
How accessible will my counselor be?
As a professional helper, I believe in fully committing to my clients. During particularly difficult times I encourage my clients to reach out when they are struggling whether it is through email or phone. I stress however that if they are in crisis (a danger to self or others) to seek immediate help as I sometimes cannot answer right away. Clients can always expect a return call/email within 24 hours. I also have blocked off hours during the week for emergency session purposes.
What can I expect from my first appointment?
Your first appointment will be an opportunity to talk about whatever you feel you need to. The analogy I use for a first session is a pot of boiling water ready to boil over. Most often people come into their first session needing to get out troubling issues they have held in for far too long. I normalize this need and encourage my clients to release their struggles so the healing process can begin.
Why should I talk to a counselor instead of my friends or family?
As well-intentioned your loved ones may be, they can never approach your struggles with an unbiased mind. Sitting down with someone who not only is educated in tools and coping mechanisms to deal with pain/grief/trauma but also can give you a fresh perspective free of judgment is much more helpful than going to a friend. You’ll never have to worry about anyone gossiping about you as counseling sessions are completely confidential.
I’ve been unhappy seeing other counselors. What makes Renewed Hopes Counseling different?
Because each person has different issues and goals for counseling, it will be different depending on the individual. I tailor my counseling approach to your specific needs. I will do all I can to make you comfortable and give you practical tools in order to work through what’s bothering you. Renewed Hopes Counseling is a place to learn to find comfort and healing through your own strength.
Can I expect to feel better right away?
Regrettably, this isn’t something that can be answered on an FAQs page. But you can be guaranteed that recognizing a problem and making a decision to solve that problem is the first step to feeling better, no matter what you may be facing. Your active participation and dedication will be crucial to your success.
Does seeing a counselor make me weak-minded?
Not at all. It takes courage to know that you need help and to reach out for that help. You may be surprised at the hard work it takes to overcome challenges in healthy ways.