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*** This is a sponsored post by Ray of Hope Counseling, all opinions are still my own***
Can I be honest for a minute ladies? The truth is that we’re stressed and we don’t like to talk about it. We certainly don’t like to discuss how this can cause mental health issues. It’s 2019 and there is still this stigma associated with seeking treatment for mental health care (crazy right?). I know we’re in an era where black women are working multiple jobs, and taking care of the kids, but there comes a time when simply “sucking it up” isn’t gonna cut it. And with so much misinformation, it can be hard to figure out what’s best our mental health. So here’s the deal. Black women need counseling. By understanding the benefits of therapy and how counseling can help is a strong first step into putting our needs first and taking back control over our lives.
Counseling for African American Women
Many black women swear off any type of counseling service because we have trouble recognizing the signs and symptoms of some mental health conditions. So we underestimate their effects. Truth be told, black women want help. We want to understand how therapy is going to help us better manage our lives.
Sharing intimate details about your life with your bestie is not the same as having a trusted professional like a therapist to talk to. In therapy, we talk to a trained specialist about small problems so we can better cope when bigger problems arise. A therapist is an impartial and objective professional who helps us make the best decisions for our current needs.
Determining the Cost of Therapy
I get it. Seeking help from a professional who understands our issues is key. It’s not going to work if you tell your therapist that bae is up north and they ask if he is visiting family in Canada? I mean, really? Seeking out a therapist that is culturally competent and makes us feel comfortable is important. If talking to another black woman about our problems is what’s needed, we shouldn’t be shy about asking for exactly that.
Other times we might have trouble finding a good mental health provider in your own neighborhood. My advice is to search the Internet, look at the profile and qualifications of all counseling practices and therapists. When you find someone you feel you can connect with pick up the phone and call them. This initial call will help figure out if there are any office in your area, if your insurance is accepted at the office, and most importantly if the therapist and services fit the need.
Local Counseling Help
Here in Atlanta, we are fortunate to have a Ray of Hope Counseling Services. There are seven locations across the Metro-Atlanta area and they even offer online therapy for those who can’t make it to the office. Ray of hope offers family and individual counseling services which can help us identify our current stressors to help us overcome our current challenges. Their racially and culturally diverse licensed psychotherapist have helped so many people gain control of anger issues, depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. Their specialized counseling and diverse approach to treatment is key to personalizing our experience. So do not be afraid to reach out to get more information.
Giving Therapy a Try
As black women, we often appear unbreakable – burying our pain, anger, frustration, and disappointment. If we are not careful, these behaviors and ways of thinking can take a toll on our emotional health. When we learn to release these negative emotions, we can make room for happiness, and joy in our lives. Counseling for black women is a must. Finding a therapist that we can connect with will give us access to an additional support system allows us to finally take off our superwoman cape and the chance to refuel.