When was the last time you truly felt listened to?

That is the essence of what counseling is about. It is a time, set apart in your schedule, that truly becomes about you and only you. Sometimes, in this modern on-the go lifestyle, many people wish for more "me time"- but when it actually happens, and you are sitting face-to-face with a trained professional listener- it can be nerve-wracking to really just have a 50 minute session about you. Each of us, are full of so rich history, layers, personality, realtionships, desires, fears.... if we stop to ponder- we just might see a flaw, or a crack, or something that makes us feel uncomfortable, vulnerable. We feel exposed, and our socialized human condition doesn't celebrate emotional exposure- so to seek comfort one becomes conditioned to keep moving on by, without a pause for self-reflection or awakening to their true inner whole self.  

However, the strongest are those who do find a moment of pause, to value the strength in owning who they are- looking at their rich inner details and experiences from multiple perspective, and braving the idea of knowing- the more you understand your authentic self, the more acceptance you become capable of, and the more joy flows abundantly in your life, relationships, and efforts.

As a LPCC (Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor) in Brentwood, CA- I work with children, teens, parents, adults of all ages. I can verify that ther is a moment that happens when I can see when "it clicks" in my clients- they feels that I am listening to them completely- and instantaneously they open up! They take a moment of courgae to face a fear, or voice a doubt, or let an emotion out in a place where they feel safe and not judged.

Therapeutic listening is essential for conversations that build trust. Building trust between client and therapist is essential for exploring the emotional history and layers within therapy sessions. The truth is in many people lives, there just aren't too many places left where you can reveal your true thoughts and feelings to a real person who isn't going to abandon you. Instead, this person- your counselor- is just there to listen, to help you become stronger and healthier on your journey into joyful living ahead.

I truly believe finding a great counselor who you feel truly listens to you- and making that a set time in your schedule, can be the difference in looking everywhere else for joyful living rather than seeing that is inside already. Counselors are professional tools that can bring you through the working journey of self-awareness, leading to self-acceptance, leading to living a life that fulfills your every hope, desire, and satisfaction. Whether you need a counselor might hinge on your answer: When was the last time I truly felt listened to?