Can you Afford Not to get Counseling in this Economy?

The price of everything is going up.  I’ve recently stopped getting my cherished pedicures, let go of some of my magazine subscriptions and even changed shampoo brands to save a little money.  Money is tight for everyone right now.  So, in these difficult economic times it may seem impossible to find the money for counseling.

If the recent decline in the economy has affected you personally, you are likely feeling increased stress, anxiety, irritability and depression worrying about what the future will bring.  These stressors will inevitably carry over to our personal relationships resulting in more arguing, emotional distancing and yes…less sex.  So you might be thinking, how on earth can I pay for counseling right now?

If you’re asking that question you’re actually on the right track.  As with most things there should be a process for weighing the benefits and costs so that a solid decision can be made.  Here are some questions you may ask yourself if you’re considering counseling but are concerned about the cost:

• Are the problems I’m struggling with likely to go away without outside help?
• How long have I been trying to solve this on my own?
• Have I tried everything I can think of to solve my problems without success?
• What is it costing me in my work, relationships and personal fulfillment to continue the way things are?
• What dollar amount would I put on the solving this issue? 
• Fill in this blank: “I would gladly pay   $________ to stop feeling ___________?
• What are all the benefits that could come from getting support?

If you believe counseling is the next step for you but still feel worried about how you’ll be able to afford it consider some of the following suggestions for finding hidden money or “leaks” in your budget that could make counseling a reality for you:

• Keep a log for 1 week of every dollar you spend to see if you can re-allocate money, for a period of time, to pay for the cost of quality counseling services.
• Are you spending money each month on goods or services you don’t need or use ($5 lattes, eating out, golf fees, lottery tickets, manicures, etc.)?  This is a great time to do some financial housekeeping and drop the dead weight.
• Check with your employer to see if Employee Assistance Program (EAP) that will cover the cost of counseling.
• Shop around for a counselor that accepts your insurance.
• Consider setting a budget and using your credit card to cover the cost of the sessions.  We routinely finance cars, televisions, trips, clothing and meals- why not counseling?  Of all the things you could use credit for isn’t your emotional wellbeing one of the best investments you could make?

In the end the final and most important question may be, “Can I afford to go another day without support and guidance if I really need?”
 

There is no better time than now. The time to live is now. The time to dream is now. The time to imagine and forget the past is now. The time to shine is now. The time to bleed, sweat, and determine yourself for the things you want most is now.
                                                                                        ~Anonymous