Is it normal to feel ashamed about seeing a counsilor?

Question

I'm thinking about seeing one because I've been having trouble with my past and haven't really moved on.

Whats the difference between a normal counsilor and a christian counsilor? Do you just pray afterwards?

Is it reasonable to want to meet somewhere private so no-one sees you there, and you are in a place you feel comfortable?

Do you think it would be ok to meet all the counsilors at a certain firm before going in and talking to someone? I've gone to certain ones before and they've given me funny vibes and I hated opening up to them....

I think I would be more comfortable talking to someone closer to my age, like only six years older. I don't always feel comfortable talking with females because they can be too motherly. Than again the male counsilor at my old school was really creepy!

Answer 1

Some people are still worried about the stigma related to seeking treatment for mental health; however, mental health treatment is especially common now days. Another reason for these feeling is that some people feel that they should be able to solve their problems themselves without the help of a therapist.

Therefore, the answer to your question is that it can be normal to feel ashamed or embarrassed by going to a therapist; however, there is no reason to feel this way. It is an excellent topic to discuss with your therapist.

Answer 2

Of course you shouldn't feel embarrassed about seeing a counsellor, but you have to feel comfortable about the one you're seeing, and their methods have to make sense to you. Christian counsellors are no better or worse than any other, and can make you more comfortable if you are also a believer. However, if they put too much religion on God and not enough on what is really going on that can be a problem. The religion should be a tool to help, not the whole focus of the treatment. A creepy guy is not for you I think. Maybe ask around and see if you can get one you like more, or a younger female you can talk to about what you are going through as a young woman. All the best and stay strong. DCR

Answer 3

Yes. Lot's of people don't like the idea of admitting any kind of problem or needing help. It's a sense of pride.

There are good counsellors and bad ones just like any other profession.

Sometimes it's good enough just to talk to a understanding friend who is willing to listen. If you don't have anybody like that, maybe a professional is necessary.

I'm not sure what they mean by a "Christian Counsellor" but I guess that would mean the person is some kind of minister. If you think that's going to help, go ahead and give it try. Probably not a good idea if you're not religious or if it is contrary to your own religious beliefs in some way.

I work in mental health and I have been treated for depression for many years. I prefer going to a psychiatrist and getting medication instead of professional counselling. But I have been to counsellors a few times and I can see how it would be helpful if that's what you need.

Answer 4

There are times that there are certain things happening in our lives that we cannot explain it or problems that may arise which we don't know how to face it. Seeking the assitance of a counsilor is not a bad thing. Professional counselling would explain the relation of science to a man's existence, and afterwards advice you of certain things on how deal with yourself, prescribing medicine if necessary. Seeking a christian counsilor would deal with your spiritual needs and relate it to what is happening in your life, and then help you cope up through prayers, encourage you to uplift your spiritual life. Both have a different approach it all depends on how are you going to apply it to your life.

Answer 5

It has taken me years to finally ask for help and even then it is still hard. Sometimes I feel stupid or humiliated for needing so much help, but that is just where I am at this point in my life. I have had to go through a few counselors and well I think the one I have right now is a keeper. I would check on your insurance webpage for a list of docs and therapists that you could call so you can get a feel of what you are looking for. I find that someone of the same sex and closer to my age has helped tremendously. Good luck you will find someone if you ask for the help.

Answer 6

In our society it's pretty normal to feel that way. I was raised not to tell family secrets, it was a form of loyalty to the family and talking to someone else just exposed the family weaknesses. As a family we were expected to work out our problems amongst ourselves. Going to an outsider was considered disloyal. As families and society changes one needs a new perspective on how to cope with life. Because we have been silently conditioned, it is hard to see a councilor but as the issues are discussed and a different perspective is formed, the visits become easier. You may find it a release valve for tension and anxiety, too. Good luck, hun.

Answer 7

I think for a teen it might be normal for one to "think" they need to feel ashamed, but there is no shame to be had in seeking help. I have found no difference among a Christian Counselor and non-Christian Counselor. I am seeing a Christain one right now and there is no praying involved at all. As for meeting..... If I am to understand you correctly you are seeking to meet with someone in private so no one will know. All you need to do is call a counseling center and they will set it up for you and you can tell them you would prefer a male or female. If you need your parents insurance then you will have to confide in one of them that you are in need of some help and me being a parent that would make me very happy knowing my child could come to me. If any couselor makes you feel uncomfortable than he or she isn't right for you and you ask for another. But never ever ever be ashamed for asking for help. We all need help from time to time and sometimes by getting help we gain so much more then we ever fully understand.

Answer 8

You should not be ashamed at all. I am a therapist myself and most of my colleagues including myself go see a therapist. It's perfectly normal and few too many people go see one when they should. As far as one you can talk to, research shows it takes 3 sessions with a therapist to determine if you can talk to a certain therapist, so don't give up on him/her too soon. If you don't feel like you can relate, say so and move on, we don't take it personally. So pick out someone you think you would like...male/female, age, etc. go see them, give it a few sessions, and take it from there.

Answer 9

Its very normal and many feels like its not normal to even see a counselor.Don't ever be ashamed of needing to talk to someone .thats why they have all types of counselors good luck kara

Answer 10

you i think its normal, coz people think tht there is something wrong with them and thts the reason they have to see one. its perfectly fine to visit a counsler! they are there to help you out a lil, not to make you feel bad. me, i am very picky about what kind i want lol. but thts good in a way, so i get the kind of counsler i want and need to help me!