Professional Counseling??

Question

Hi. I was just wondering about professional counseling. I know about it and stuff, but I was wondering how one would approach one's mother about it... =/
Ya see I think I need to talk to someone. In the past I've had self injury problems, depression problems, and eating disorders. My mom doesn't know about anything but the cutting (and perhaps the depression, but I havent said anything). My question is how would I talk to my mom about my wanting to speak to someone? What do I say? How do I start such a conversation?
Thank you for your answers. Much appreciated!
--JuliaGulia

Answer 1

So the saying goes, how much does your mother knows about you?

I believe it is best to balance out things in a conversation that is like a two way street. A little talk about yourself (so that it doesn't appear that you would be self-asborbed person) and a little talk about mother's terms (so it doesn't appear you don't care what is happening around you).

Key word is listening. Don't forget to listen to your mother instead of just her words of saying it.

Honesty is part of the equation and finding the time for both of you to sit down a talk, really talk about it.

I cannot control the outcome that is your journey but I would suggest you keep a few keypoints on paper before hand so that the flow moves along.

If your mother doesn't show any interest or if you feel that her answers aren't helping you then you can be prepared to ask your local GP in clinical confidentiality or discreetion to be referred to a counseller. (This ought to be in your mind as a last resort but you are NOT alone in this!!!!)

Answer 2

How old are you? If you have to ask your mom, i assume you are in high school maybe? If so, why dont you fo to your school counselor or school psychologist? They are trained professional counselors, and that way you wouldnt even need to tell your mom unless you wanted to.
If for some reason you cant do the above...just say to your mom "I really feel like I have some things I need to work out with myself, and I think seeing a counselor about it would really help me get to a better place. What do you think?"
Chances are, your insurance will cover some sessions. If not, there are surely some free or sliding scale clinics in your area. Try local universities with Counseling programs...they usually have really cheap counseling available to the public. Good luck, and good for you for knowing what to do when you feel like this.

Answer 3

If you really need to talk to someone, but the obstacle preventing you from is telling your mother you might look to see if there are groups in your area. I am an MSW (social worker) and I used to facilitate groups for kids who were gay but were not ready to come out, you don't need to tell your mother. Group therapy is a much more effective form of therapy for certain problems, self-harm is one of them because you develop the support from your peers who understand what you are experiencing. If you need to find a group e-mail me and let me know where you are at and I will see if I can locate a group for you.

Answer 4

just tell her you need to talk to a counselor about some problems you are having. if she knows you cut your self she will surely try and get you help.