Purpose of Counseling

With all sorts of unexpected challenges, stressors, and problems in life, one must understand that counseling goes beyond severe mental health concerns and disorders. It’s a valuable process to deal with and manage everyday life challenges we all face. Whether it’s dealing with exam stress, figuring out career paths, overcoming procrastination, or struggling with marital adjustment, counseling provides support and guidance in all aspects of life.

It’s there to help boost confidence, beat stage fright, navigate concerns arriving from bullying, and deal with trauma arising from physical or sexual abuse. Additionally, it’s a lifeline for teenagers grappled with adolescence-related concerns and adults facing job stress. From managing general anxiety to overcoming feelings of depression, counseling offers a safe space to explore and grow.

As childhood lays foundation for our emotional and psychological well-being, children might experience mental health challenges stemming from family, friends, or school.

Psychological concerns in children and adolescents may include shyness, lack of confidence, low self-esteem, fears, excessive worries etc.  Behavioral concerns comprise of general disobedience, stubborn behavior or rigidity, aggression, use of abusive language, physical fights, bullying others, unable to form friendships or socialize, use of cigarettes and alcohol consumption, truancy etc.

Academic concerns such as hesitation in clarifying doubts or answering questions when asked (even if they know the answer), below-average performance in academics, lack of productivity, difficulty in time-management, inability to complete exam papers within time-limit, difficulty copying from board and maintaining writing speed, lack of participation in extracurriculars etc. can worsen their difficulties.

Experiences like trauma, bullying, and abuse (verbal, physical, sexual abuse) may present itself in the form of unusual changes in behavior, restlessness, extreme worries or fears, fatigue and psycho-somatic symptoms such as stomachache, headache and so on. Additionally, other concerns may arise from various factors including parental disputes, separation or divorce, neglected parenting, and excessive use of electronic devices. All this can significantly impact the mental health of children and adolescents. 

Adolescence marks a significant period of transition from childhood to adulthood, bringing about a wave of emotional and psychological challenges.

These challenges often stem from factors like peer pressure, relationship issues, familial constraints, and the struggle with decision-making. Adolescents may find themselves grappling with stress and anxiety as they navigate social interactions and societal expectations to fit in.

The desire for acceptance among peers can also influence their mental well-being. Additionally, concerns about romantic relationships or familial dynamics further compound these challenges. Moreover, the pressure to make decisions about future career paths adds to their stress and uncertainty. During this pivotal stage, adolescents are particularly vulnerable to societal standards regarding appearance and identity, which can further impact their self-esteem and emotional well-being. These concerns emphasize the importance of providing counseling or therapy to adolescents with the help of a child psychologist. 

While counselling deals with a wide range of emotional, psychological, and behavioral concerns, it plays a crucial role in addressing severe mental disorders as well. Individuals grappled with mental disorders rely on the support, guidance and therapy provided by mental health professionals (counselors and psychologists).

These disorders significantly impact individuals’ daily functioning and overall well-being. Among them are Anxiety Disorders, marked by heightened levels of worry and fear, and Depressive Disorders, which manifest as feelings of profound sadness, hopelessness, and disinterest in activities. Additionally, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) entails persistent, intrusive thoughts and behaviors that disrupt daily functioning. Eating disorders like anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder involve unhealthy relationships with food and body image, posing serious threats to individuals’ physical and mental health.

While the list of disorders is endless, it also includes Personality Disorders, and other psychotic disorders involving delusions, hallucinations, self-harm etc. 

Neurodevelopmental Disorders like Intellectual Disability (ID), Specific Learning Disability (SLD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Down syndrome (DS) show impact on different areas of development of a child such as cognitive, physical, motor, social, emotional, and speech & language development.

These disorders present unique limitations for individuals, impacting their learning, communication, and social interactions. Assessment and different modes of therapy serve an essential purpose in addressing the complexities of these mental disorders. By offering personalized assistance, counsellors / psychologists aid individuals in managing the difficulties associated with neurodevelopmental conditions.

Early and effective intervention is crucial in giving the best possible management.

Acknowledging the need for professional assistance and finding the right counsellor, psychologist or therapist is the initial step towards improved mental health. With appropriate support and therapeutic guidance, many individuals can overcome or effectively manage their mental health, leading to improved quality of life.

If you experience disruptions in your daily life due to any arising issues, it’s advisable to seek early counseling or psychotherapy from a psychologist, counselor, or a licensed mental health professional.

If you’re seeking a counselor / therapist / psychologist in Meerut for in-person or online sessions (voice or video call), feel free to contact Ms. Surbhi Manocha, a licensed counselor in Meerut. To schedule your appointment, call: +91 8923270266 or 8266895667.