6 Excuses for Not Going to Counseling (And Why You Shouldn’t Use Them)

1. I can work through this by myself. 

I’m not here to tell you that you’re too weak to handle your circumstances on your own should you choose to see a counselor. In fact, I believe that you are strong enough to know when to ask for help. Admitting that you need help does not reflect weakness, but rather shows signs of strength. We are social beings, and we each need a support system to celebrate on the mountaintops and walk with us through the valleys. Moral of the story: It’s okay to ask for help.

2. Talking to someone about my problems won’t help. 

Counseling works. In fact, counseling methodology has been tested numerous times for its effectiveness. Licensed counselors and therapists have gone through years of training to help clients set and reach their goals through counseling. In order to best serve clients, therapists and counselors are required to complete Continuing Education Credits even after they earn their licensure. Still don’t believe me that counseling will work, I guess you will just have to try it out yourself 

3. Counseling is too expensive. 

Most counseling providers, have payment options to ensure that everyone can afford to see a counselor. At Radiant Health we utilize an income-based pay scale and accept payments from most insurance companies along with Medicaid and Medicare. To discuss the affordability of counseling and payment options at Radiant Health please call 765-662-9971.

4. I don’t have time. 

Not true. You do have time; you have 24 hours each day, 168 hours each week. The truer statement is you don’t have time for everything. So, take some time to consider what your priorities are in your life. Are the benefits of seeing a counselor worth the 60 minutes a week (I argue YES!)? Still don’t believe that you have the time? Take a look a this.

5. Counseling is for crazy people. 

Unfortunately, our society has perpetuated the idea that going to a counselor means that there is something wrong with you or you’re “crazy.” This is simply not true. Counseling is for individuals who need guidance through the difficult or challenging times of life. We aren’t meant to walk through life alone, and remember what we established earlier: it’s okay to ask for help!

6. I don’t want people to know I am going to counseling. 

They don’t have to know! HIPAA protects your right to privacy when you see a counselor. Generally, no one outside of your counselor will learn what you discuss during the counseling session. There are a few circumstances which allow your counselor to break confidentiality, a couple examples being if you threaten to harm yourself or others and suspicion of child abuse or neglect. To take a look at Radiant Health’s Notice of Privacy Practices, click here.