When you’re struggling with a mental health challenge, it can be difficult to know where to turn. You might feel like you need to keep everything inside and suffer in silence. But, reaching out for help is a sign of strength. It shows that you’re willing to do whatever it takes to get better.
If you’re looking for someone to talk to, you might want to consider working with a Catholic counselor at Vitus Counseling. There are many benefits of working with a counselor that understands your faith and can give you the guidance you need to heal.
Why Choose a Catholic Counselor?
There are many reasons you should specifically choose a Catholic counselor if you align with that faith and have that option. They understand the specific traditions and teachings of Catholicism. This can be beneficial if you’re dealing with a unique challenge that might not be well understood by someone outside of the faith. For example, when getting a divorce a Catholic counselor will be able to help you navigate the process emotionally but also the process that the church requires to annul that marriage in the eyes of God.
A Catholic Counselor Understands the Role Your Faith Has in Your Life
Since a Catholic counselor already knows your faith, you won't have to explain the connection of your mental health with your faith. They understand that the two are interconnected. This means they will be able to provide guidance based on the unique traditions and teachings of Catholicism. Your counselor will be able to help you see how your faith can be a source of strength as you face your mental health challenges. But also, if you're struggling mentally, they will understand how that might be impacting your relationship with God.
Why Reach Out to Someone Outside of the Church?
Priests in the Catholic Church do have some mental health training. However, they have many people in the community to focus on. From weddings, Masses, funerals, and other events, they are constantly being pulled in different directions. A Catholic counselor is focused on you and your mental health issues alone. This means you won't have to worry about them being distracted or not having enough time to truly listen to what you're saying.
Additionally, seeking out someone outside of the church can give you an objective perspective. It can be helpful to have someone that you aren't as personally close to giving you the guidance you need. This way, you can feel more comfortable being open and honest about the challenges in your life. This doesn't mean that your counselor won't be supportive. This means they will be less likely to have any personal biases that might cloud their judgment.
Privacy is Important
When you are struggling with mental health issues, you probably do not want everyone at church or in your personal life to know. When you work with a Catholic counselor, you can be assured that what you say will remain confidential. This is important because it allows you to be fully open and honest about what you're going through.
For example, if you're struggling with addiction, you might not feel comfortable talking to your priest about it (at least outside of the context of confession and/or spiritual direction). But, if you reach out to a Catholic counselor, they will be able to assist you with getting the help you need without judgment. Or, if you and your spouse are going through a divorce, you might not want the whole church to know. However, a Catholic counselor will be able to help you navigate the process while still respecting your privacy and not involving anyone else from the church unless you want them to.
BEGIN Christian COUNSELING IN BRENTWOOD, TN
You may be struggling to find a counselor who meets all of your needs. In Catholic counseling a Catholic counselor can provide you with unique support and guidance without you having to explain your faith. If you're looking for someone who understands the connection of your faith to your mental health, I offer Catholic counseling at my counseling office located in Brentwood, TN. I also offer online therapy to anyone living in the state of Tennessee.
If you’re ready to begin counseling, follow these steps:
Submit a contact form or reach out by emailing stucook@vituscounseling.com or calling (615)-709-5779.
Learn more about my counseling services
Start your journey to healing today
OTHER COUNSELING SERVICES OFFERED AT VITUS COUNSELING
As a therapist, I know finding a Catholic counselor may not be the only challenge you are having in life. You may be struggling with depression or anxiety from the state of the world. Or, perhaps you're struggling with addiction and you're wanting support. I offer a range of counseling services at Vitus Counseling to help my clients through the various challenges they may be experiencing. I’m here to support you on your journey to healing and better mental health.
