By: Milo Crosswhite, MA, LPC-C

As a counselor and art therapist I know that when my clients begin counseling, they often share their doubt and shame of even needing counseling. That is, until they begin to understand and feel the benefits of being supported without judgment, empowered by compassion, and validated in their experiences. The skills learned in session carry over to their daily lives in tangible ways, improving their quality and enjoyment of life.  

Embarking on a journey of counseling can be a transformative experience, as individuals gradually shed doubt and shame, embracing the profound benefits of support, compassion, and validation, ultimately translating newfound skills into tangible improvements in their daily lives. Here are 10 compelling reasons why seeking counseling can be a powerful catalyst for personal growth and enhanced well-being:

1. When you think that you are the only one out of 8 billion people that has this thing, this issue, this challenge. 
2. When you are seeking support & realize there are holes in your network.
3. When you want to isolate yourself instead of calling a friend. 
4. When the negative self-talk stops motivating you, if it ever really did. 
5. When you feel less joyful than you used to in any aspect of your life. 
6. When you tell yourself, it’s all your fault. 
7. When you believe you are hopeless, helpless, or worthless. 
8. When you stop seeing the beauty that is you. 
9. When you no longer laugh through the tears.
10. When you feel you are not enough.

Knowing when to seek help is probably one of the most valuable skills a person can have. Our internal scripts might try to tell us that we are the only one of 8 billion people on this planet who’s dealing with this thing, this problem, this issue, obviously. The truth is, we are all similar in more ways than we know, but reaching out can feel scary. 

When you think that you are the only one struggling, it can feel like you don’t deserve support, but you do. What you don’t deserve is to berate yourself or be berated by others, with insults and negativities, because you are amazing. You are inherently good. You deserve support and validation of your feelings and experiences. 

Have you ever had a topic that you needed to work out with another person, but when you go to call a friend, it feels too personal? So, you try another person in your support system. You realize that you want to explore things further, further than you want to with your friends and family. Processing things with a counselor allows you the intimacy of confidentiality in a healthy way. 

If you no longer want to do the things that make you smile or find enjoyment in your daily life, you may actually find enjoyment in counseling. When we have lost hope, it can be difficult to see through the storm; We can’t just snap out of it. You aren’t broken. You are enduring so much without giving yourself credit for the strength you hold. You are worthy of support. 

Imagine having an hour dedicated to you, dedicated to hearing what you have to say, helping you meet your goals, supporting you without judgment, but with empathy; Your counselor is invested in you. Now, imaging counseling as a rewarding challenge that could change your perspective and your quality of life, because you deserve it. You are truly a beautiful person. 

If this resonates with you and you would like to take the next step to seek counseling, please reach out to me to schedule a counseling or art therapy session. Here at Embody + Mind Collective, we value empowering our clients, validating your experiences, and supporting you on your journey. My name is Milo Crosswhite, I studied counseling, art therapy, and sex therapy at Adler University. I would love to walk with you through this journey. I currently have openings for counseling and art therapy, individual or relationship, including weekday and weekend availability. 

In addition, I am facilitating a 6 week virtual art workshop this winter! The workshop is for Mature Mamas 35+ to explore the joys & challenges of parenthood & postpartum life in a safe space, with a sense of community & support. We will begin a conversation of how we have been navigating motherhood, what is working, and what needs care. So if this sounds like a good fit for you and you would like to take steps to care for yourself and fill your cup, don’t hesitate to register. If you have questions, please reach out and we can chat.! -Milo 847.920.4453 or email me at milo@embodyandmindcollective.com I am here to support you.