WHAT ABOUT COUNSELING?

Many people fear the thought of “counseling”.  These fears stem from the many myths surrounding counselors and counseling. These are some example myths revolving around counseling:

1. “What if the counselor does not believe me?”

2. “Only people who are really ‘sick’ go to counseling.”

3. “I don’t want my family to know about the victimization.”

4. “I can’t afford counseling.”

5. “I don’t know who to go to for counseling.”

6. “I’m not sure if I was legally raped because he is my boyfriend.”

In reality, counseling can be a very non-threatening, positive experience.  The most important decision comes in choosing a counselor.  It is very important that survivors find a counselor who has prior experience working with survivors of sexual assault.  The counselor should be comfortable with the issues specific to the recovery of a survivor.  Counseling is a confidential relationship between the survivor and counselor.  Anyone can participate in counseling without anyone else knowing.

Survivors should be encouraged to attend counseling, even if only for one or two visits.  It is tremendously important that a survivor have the chance to vent and sort feelings and emotions in a supportive atmosphere.

Survivors who became active with a counselor report that they often felt that it was very rewarding and helped ease the recovery process.

Turning Point provides free, individual and group counseling. Please contact us at (205) 758-0808 for more information.