4 Steps to Finding a Good Counselor
Posted on 23. Aug, 2010 by Angie Wyatt in Blog
Loading ...I remember the first time I sought professional counseling. My knees shook as I walked into her little office. I felt so vulnerable and exposed. I had no idea what to expect of an entire hour with all the focus on me. She opened by asking how I was doing. I blurted out, “I’m scared.”
I was a graduate student studying therapy. I read books, discussed theories and practiced various therapeutic skills. Still, I had not personally attended counseling. One thing was clear… before helping others, I needed to find my own healing. So, I asked my professor for a referral. It was scary to focus on myself, but it was also one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
Now, I recommend counseling to absolutely everyone. Do it sooner than later, and the next phases of your life will be more rewarding that you imagined. Once you decide to start counseling, you are met with a big task: How to find and choose a counselor? Finding the right counselor is as imperative as finding the right doctor. A good one makes all the difference in the world.
4 Steps to Finding a Good Counselor:
1. Ask your religious community for a list of counselors they recommend. (You may want to avoid asking family and friends for referrals. If you do this, they may feel entitled to an update on how the counseling is going.) Also, some religious communities provide financial scholarships to members who need professional care. Be sure to inquire if this is an option for you.
2. Search the American Association of Christian Counselors for a counselor near you.
Why AACC? Being a Christian doesn’t necessarily make someone a better counselor. However, it does increase your chances of finding a counselor who will value your spiritual growth. Counseling often takes a humanistic approach that leads you away from God. To maintain Spiritual Wellness, find a counselor who values a God-centered life. You don’t have to be a Christian to attend Christian Counseling. Also, a Christian counselor will not attempt to proselytize you. Christian counseling is simply a foolproof way to find a counselor who values spiritual growth.
3. Interview the counselor. Here’s a list of questions to ask:
- What is your area of expertise? What exposure/experience have you had helping people with my presenting concern?
- What continuing education classes are you taking?
- Will you respect my spiritual views?
- Do you offer a free consultation? (While this is not common, it is worth asking!)
Note: In addition to helpful information, the interview will also give you insight into the counselor’s personality. It’s important to find a counselor with whom you can easily converse. You’re looking for a personality-match.
4. Negotiate the fee. Counseling typically ranges between $75-$200 per hour depending on your location and need. You will usually need a minimum of 3 sessions. Some professionals will charge less for clients with a low income. Be sure to also check with your insurance provider as this may be another option for you. Remember that everything worthwhile requires a sacrifice. You may need to make sacrifices in order to afford counseling.
Counseling is not synonymous with Spiritual Wellness. However, it is an imperative stepping stone on your path to Spiritual Wellness. Counseling will help you find inner healing, build your confidence and give you practical life skills. If you couple counseling with hearing God, you will make great progress toward Spiritual Wellness.
What additional advice would you give to people looking for a good counselor? Can you give a referral for a counselor in your city?
10 Responses to “4 Steps to Finding a Good Counselor”
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Angie Wyatt
23. Aug, 2010
If you live in the DFW area, I can personally recommend Teri Fusilier, http://www.tfusilier.com/, for most counseling needs.
For extreme needs such as post-war trauma or bipolar disorder, I recommend Dr. Jerry Mungadze, http://www.mungadze.net/.
Belinda Morgan
23. Aug, 2010
Angela,
Hi! My husband & I HIGHLY recommend Total Life Ministries in Arlington, Texas. They have the spiritual gift of wisdom & discernment, 2 things that are critical in any type of situation where someone is needing Life spoken into their lives. Check out their website at http://www.wordbasedcounseling.org
Angie Wyatt
24. Aug, 2010
Here’s another one in DFW: Linda Barnes, LPC, Destination Hope, 817-366-3494, 211 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 107, Southlake, TX 76092
Al
24. Aug, 2010
Angie,
Love your insights to counseling. Had some additional thoughts:
Is there such a thing as too much counseling? And In our social networks, are they going to far in entitlement’s?
I personally have seen the younger generation get so caught up into this subject, and with way to much superficial counseling, to only then fail in other aspects of life. And or creating more problems, in which, were never really there. They tend to read into things…Are we going backwards with the younger generation and others?
Additionally, I agree that not many Christians are seeking assistance with their church councilors. For example, a very good friend of mine is going through a divorce, but yet never considered going back to his church for marriage counseling. People keep referring out to the social councilors, rather than with the church. In the context of church counseling have you seen any improvements on that issue, in society as a whole?
What are the solutions? Great blog…thanks Angie!
-Al
Donna Schuller
24. Aug, 2010
If you live in Orange County I recommend Richard Lippert. He is an amazing counselor and is very gifted with kids too! Donna
Angie Wyatt
24. Aug, 2010
Al, great thoughts. I agree that people tend to get over-dependent on counseling. When left unchecked it leads to self-centered living. This is why Spiritual Wellness is so important. When we’re spiritually well, we understand that Christ is our center and we must experience Him in community with others. We must serve others. Also, I think churches are getting better at counseling. For too long, churches compartmentalized their religious message. So, when people had real emotional and psychological needs, they didn’t know how to help. i think that’s changing. I hope it’s changing. That’s what this website is trying to do anyway – integrate spirituality with the whole of our lives.
Do you see it improving? Angie
Al
24. Aug, 2010
Angie,
Yes I do think your website is helping tremendously; you’re doing great! I think you’re a natural fit for interviews too!
Thanks for the updated reply…love the viewer interactions, and some great website referrals in your locations. Spot on!
Look forward to more of your videos and blogs.
Thank-you!
-Al
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I was wondering how to find a Christian counselor. Thanks for the tips.
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