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When To Seek Therapy
 Dr. John B. Evans:
Adjunct Professor - Eastfield College
(6 years)
Advanced Clinical Licensure (LCSW)
Over 20 Years Experience
Ph.D.... Clinical Social Work; UT - Arlington
MSW.... Social Work; UT - Arlington
MS.... Counseling; Texas A&M - Commerce
BA.... Philsophy; University of North Texas
Psychotherapy is a proven technique for resolving issues including chronic problems which may have festered for years. Do you worry over issues that are causing you to eat too much or too little, sleep too much or too little, affecting your happiness, relationships with family or friends, your job, your physical health, etc.? Are you feeling stuck in life or are you experiencing some decision paralysis because of limits you unconsciously place on life choices and decisions? Are you so uncomfortable alone that you accept one dysfunctional relationship after another?
From time to time, everyone experiences such difficulties in life and can benefit from the help and assistance available through professional psychotherapy. Therapy offers the client the opportunity to examine, confront, clarify, and reassess their understanding of themselves and their situation. Psychotherapy can be extremely effective in helping people with problems as diverse as major or minor depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, parent-child-adolescent conflict including spousal or child abuse, parenting skills, marital strife, separation/divorce transition, problems with extended family, loss of a loved one, sexual issues, alcohol and drug issues, self-esteem issues, career issues, stress management, etc.
Personality disorders and mood disorders may also contribute to life problems, usually without the individual’s knowledge. Increased self-knowledge alone allows many people to have more control over their symptoms, their personality and behavior, and their life choices setting the stage for personal improvement and growth.
Some societies and subcultures view therapy as a sign of weakness when quite the opposite is the case. Seeking help with troubling issues is a sign of maturity and strength and results in not only an increased understanding of oneself, but a greater understanding of others as well.
Individuals who have not experienced therapy before may feel some apprehension about the process. This is actually very common and quite understandable. Any concerns you have regarding both the potential benefits of therapy or fears of possible harmful effects should be discussed with Dr. Evans during the initial session, or at any other time if these concerns surface.
A clarification and understanding of the professional confidentiality required in the therapeutic process usually resolves any concerns that may block further progress in therapy (see “Confidentiality”). And keep in mind that these feelings of apprehension may be a positive sign indicating that the client is ready to do serious work exploring serious issues.
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