By Nancy Virden (c)2021

I had already experienced several therapists over the years, some who should not be in the business. Looking back I can see they did not help me. Instincts told me the same at the time, but in desperation I was willing to talk to anyone. In that sense, it was their availability that briefly brought relief.

This time, however, a therapist spoke my language. I was believed. Heard. No one scolded when I was selfish, passive-aggressive, distrusting, angry or afraid. It was understood that my emotions and mind were not in healthy places, and no one demanded quick turnabout. Instead, where learned and false beliefs confused the person I wanted to be, guidance was honest, firm, and kind.

Human therapists are only that- human. They sometimes have messed-up emotions and motives like the rest of us. Some are unprofessional, others untalented. Most therapists have some history of personal challenges which piqued their interest in the helping field. Hopefully, most are wise. Many are not. Beware.

Our Spiritual Preparation

If a therapist is steering you away from God, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, repentance, and self-responsibility, run. If she preaches at you, making everything spiritual and disregarding the psychological and physical components of your mental health struggles, run. If you have good reason to believe he is not listening, run. if you are disrespected, run. If you are being physically violated or psychologically manipulated into a more personal relationship, run fast.

While it is true that therapists with skill and knowledge can teach us how to handle life in healthy ways, they cannot be God. Our personal relationship with Jesus is how we receive “The Counselor,” the Holy Spirit sent by God to all who believe. He leads us into the truth, sometimes sending us to people who can help untangle those old lies and tapes that keep us down. Ultimately, it is knowing the Word of God, the Bible, that keeps us from falling into error.

When I found a therapist who could meet the needs of the moment, I did not leave God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit behind. While major depression had me barely whispering “help” in prayer, I knew who was my Savior. It was understood -because the Word says so- that he would never leave me. It was impossible for me to imagine how (or why) God would want my life to continue; it was never a doubt that if he had a reason, he would make a way.

Do not go through life without him. Do not enter therapy without trusting in Jesus as your Savior and asking him to help. I am not promising instant cures. I am guaranteeing that if you seek him with all your heart, he will be found. You will never be alone or without his available wisdom.

-COMMENTS WELCOME

Today’s Helpful Word

Jeremiah 29:12-14 NKJ

Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.  And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.

Always the Fight Ministries (ATFM) has been displaying compassion for those fighting mental illness, addiction, or abuse since 2012. Nancy is the founder and voice of ATFM and openly shares her emotional resurrection from despair.

NOTE: I am not a doctor or a mental health professional, and speak only from personal experiences and observations. In no way is this website intended to substitute for professional mental or behavioral health care.

If you are feeling suicidal, or concerned about someone who is, in the U.S. call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or for a list of international suicide hotlines, go here.

If you are suicidal with a plan, immediately call 911 in the U.S. or go to your nearest emergency room. In the EU call 112. (For other international emergency numbers, go here ). Hope and help are yours!

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