There are also many common myths that hinder individuals from gettiing the help they desire. Listed below are several myths that you may have heard:

It's too expensive!
Yes, counseling has a cost.  It is an investment of your money, time, and energy.  Unfortunately, problems have a cost, as well.  Problems can "cost" us our relationships, or have "costly" impact on our emotional, physical, or spiritual health.  Counseling can help you deal with the roadblocks in your life, and help you reach your goals- what a wise investment and good use of your monies!

I don't have the time!
Yes, counseling takes time out of your day.  Our problems also take "time" out of our day by causing us worry, sadness, or regret over past decisions.  Each day has the same amount of time in it, and investing 50 minutes on a weekly or every other week basis to learn how to effectively manage problems in your life is a worthwhile use of your time.

I'll be in counseling forever!
Our  goal is  for you to reach your goals in counseling in the shortest amount of time that is effective.  Many individuals and families reach their goals in just a few sessions, while others may be in counseling over several months.  Your counselor will tailor their work to best fit your needs, while focusing on helping you successfully reach your goal in the briefest period of time.

Counseling is just for the mentally ill!
This is one of the most damaging myths about counseling, and in actuality, the exact opposite is true.  We all can benefit from counseling.  In fact, counseling is most beneficial for all people facing everyday life.  Responsible people deal effectively with normal stress by seeking help, and their efforts to seek help indicate their emotional health, not illness. 

I can talk to my family and friends just as well!
This may be true, as our family and friends are a wonderful support.  There are several key differences, though.  A friendship is a two-way street, where two people give and take.  In counseling, the focus is on you, and the problem you are facing.  Your counselor will use their education, the tools of the mental health professions such as different types of therapy and assessment tools, their own wisdom of life experience, and the truths of the Bible to help you grow and change.  Your counselor is an unbiased third party, and will provide feedback to you that your family or friends may not be comfortable to provide.  Your counselor is also bound by strict confidentiality laws that protects your privacy, and this assurance of privacy helps create a trust between you and your counselor.