​These are typical experiences shared with me over the years by clients.  Many of them entered therapy to work on anxiety, depression or relationship struggles without recognizing the role their childhood hurt or trauma played in how they were feeling as an adult.  They had been working so hard to understand their feelings in the context of their adult lives, but hadn’t been able to make the progress or changes they felt they should.  Their worries and concerns seemed exaggerated, even unrealistic.  Their chronic sadness, in spite of having a rich and full life, was a mystery.  They found themselves caught in the same unhealthy patterns in their relationships, despite wanting desperately to love and be loved. 
The process of therapy revealed that each of these clients also had courage and outstanding strengths that helped them survive the emotional hurts, neglect, and in some cases physical abuse, of their childhoods.  In addition, they had all overcome significant obstacles in their adult life and even excelled in unique areas, though these were accomplishments they previously had not recognized. 
Therapists trained in trauma resolution can assist clients with healing wounds from the past using emotionally safe and clinically effective approaches specific for an individual’s needs.  By addressing these childhood experiences and how they impact the present, one is more fully empowered for lasting changes in how they feel about themselves and in their choices and relationships with others.  We can then be our best selves in the present, having released our ghosts from the past.

When the prominent, dominant mood state you experience is sadness and depression, that’s an indication that there is an emotional imbalance.  Not only is this a miserable way to feel, it can influence every area of your life.  

• Social: withdrawal from normal level of engaging with friends and family​

Making the decision to seek help isn’t easy.  We don’t turn to strangers for help and guidance unless we are struggling in the first place.  Then there is the challenge of finding the right professional to consult with regarding our most personal feelings and concerns. Schedules, finances, location—these are all realities that impact the decision to start counseling with a therapist.  When you’ve worked through all those details and have your initial appointment set up, you will find yourelf wondering what should I expect at that first session?
Even if you’ve seen a therapist before, it is normal to have anxiety about your first session with a new counselor.