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Old 08-12-2023, 05:10 PM   #4
mrdonkey
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Sorry you’ve been going through a rough time. Job loss is a hell of a thing to go through, especially with a family to support. I would encourage you to keep reaching out to your wife and other people in your support network, as it really does help to know that you’re not alone in your journey. When it comes to finding a professional, your best bet is to do a little bit of independent research and ask around. What works for one person might not work for another, so take any personal references with a grain of salt. Almost every counsellor will offer a free consultation over the phone to gauge the fit and lay some of the groundwork for what they can offer.

When I was starting out, I found it helpful to keep a list of specific goals I wanted to work on, and some of the qualities I was looking for in that professional relationship. It was helpful both for me and the counsellors I was talking with to have a clear understanding of my needs going in. Some counsellors will be more specialized in, say, grief support, and others in behavioural and cognitive adjustment. Some will have a more active voice and others will be more client-centered, allowing you to direct most of the conversation. It really is just a matter of asking around and not being afraid to ask for a referral if the fit isn’t there. It can sometimes take a while and many tries to find something that works for you.

Also, as this process can be a financial strain, do note that the Distress Centre is a completely free, over-the-phone resource with professionals on-site. They primarily focus on helping people get through serious crisis and thoughts of suicide, but the volunteers there are great people who are trained to talk with you about anything at all for no charge.

Hoping you can get through this soon and get back on the road to finding the joy in life again.
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