Counseling Topics

Client Issues

Trauma: A person who has experienced or witnessed trauma(s) often lack ways to explain what they are feeling, thinking, or why certain behaviors are occurring. Client’s will often talk about being terrified of ordinary occurrences in their lives and not know why. Examples may be fear of the dark, loud noises like a back firing of a muffler on a car, or when someone speaks loudly. These are a few examples of intrusive thoughts which may be unconsciously acting as symbols from past events.

The person who has lived through a trauma often continues to be in situations consciously or unconsciously re-enacting the event(s). They often seek help due to confusion as to why they keep attracting events, or people into their lives which continue to traumatize them.

Substance Use: A person seeking help with their substance use has found or is questioning if it has been interfering with their ability to think clearly, is affecting their physical health, and their spiritual beliefs. Others come to counseling due to being mandated by the courts.

The effects of alcohol or drug dependence displays itself in a variety of ways. One may be very successful in their profession but personally living in a way contrary to their values and morals. Others may have lost jobs and relationships. Substance use disorder does not always “look bad or sloppy” on the outside as depicted in movies/TV.

Depression: Life may look very happy externally while an individual may be feeling miserable and alone. A few of the factors that could precipitate depression are, genetics, physiology, environmentally due to past experiences, additional disorders, medical conditions, and grief.

There are various levels of depression. Identifying the type of depression, level and depth of occurrence is helpful to do with a supportive counselor. Isolating can be a major factor when one feels depressed. The depression is often draining and results in lack of motivation.

Phobias: Have you ever found yourself avoiding going over bridges, driving on highways, going in an elevator, fear of certain animals, or avoiding going in a house that you once saw a spider in?

Phobias display themselves in various ways. A person may experience severe anxiety thinking about a situation or a certain object. The phobia may affect one’s functioning level, and personal/professional choices.

Anxiety: Anxiety is often filled with regrets from the past and/or worry about the future. This can lead a person into feeling powerless and out of control. There are various levels of anxiety from having little effect on one’s life, to paralyzing fears and worries.

The distress level may be disguised or minimized through substance use, constant activity, poor eating habits, and geographic moves.

Client Focus: