Counseling Awareness Month

Celebrating Counseling Awareness Month

by Sharon Fu, Seeds of Hope Counseling

Ahh, April! Springtime, new beginnings and a time to bloom! It’s sort of perfect that April Counseling Awareness Month as a “new start” for many people begins with counseling.

During Counseling Awareness Month, we celebrate the profession, showcase the important work counselors do in communities, and educate the public about the many ways in which all types of counselors empower others to live more fulfilling lives.

With that, I am going to walk you through some of the benefits of counselors and a little bit about myself as a professional in this field proudly serving McHenry County.

Seeing a Counselor: Myth vs. Fact

Let’s begin with a big misconception: The stigma that people who see counselors are in some way “less than.” Nothing could not be further from the truth.

And while counseling does contend with serious mental health issues such as anxiety, depression and others, it is also used for relationships, life advice and so much more.

The fact is, a little counseling can help everyone to improve in their everyday lives.

Benefits of Counselors

Think about your closest confidant. Maybe it’s a best friend, sibling or partner. Do you filter your feelings when telling them your troubles? Do you feel bad about venting to them about your problems? Although those relationships are important, of course, counselors act as a support system that allow you to speak in whatever way you need in order to find healing – without judgement.

And who hasn’t tried to tackle problems on their own? Being “stuck in your head” can be hard work and lead to more confusion. It’s always best to find clarity through speaking with a professional in times like this. They will help you to feel entitled to your emotions, regardless of how irrational you think they may be.

A lot of times when dealing with big emotions, it boils down to trust. Counselors go through many years of rigorous education in order to be able to analyze and assess the human condition. Regardless of your situation, they will be able to explain what you are feeling and why you are feeling it.

The Seeds of Hope Promise

Counseling Awareness Month is important to me personally because it recognizes the work my practice and my fellow practitioners do every day. To be a counselor is to believe all humans have the capacity to make positive changes to their lives. With major depression as the most common mental disorder in the United States, accessible counseling is essential now more than ever.

My practice Seeds of Hope understands when seeking help, people really value not being judged and to receive immediate symptom relief. But also being treated with kindness and respect. Those are among my promises to my clients. You can read more about “Our Promise to You” here.

My last takeaway is knowing taking the step to visit a counselor is nothing short of an act of bravery. Let’s face it, it’s difficult to talk to strangers about your burdens and struggles, especially if you feel as though they are unimportant in the larger scheme of life. Just know counselors are here to help you in any way you need and, more importantly, they care deeply about helping you improve yourself.