Should You See a Lay Counselor?
We’ve all faced seasons of being overwhelmed in life. Whether we are experiencing a difficult relationship, dealing with grief, battling depression/anxiety, walking through infertility, facing lack of intimacy in our marriage, fighting substance abuse, sexual addiction, or going through a season of intense change—there are certain seasons where we need more than our close community of friends can provide. We may extra need insight, support, perspective, and non-judgmental care—and seeing a lay counselor may be the right option for you.There are certain seasons where we need more than our close community of friends can provide.According to the Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 577,000 mental health professionals currently practicing within the United States. However, as mental health becomes a more widely-discussed subject, more and more people are open to counseling services, but can struggle to find a counselor. That’s where lay counseling might be a help to you or someone you know.
Lay Counseling vs. Clinical Counseling
Most of us are fairly familiar with clinical counseling, so what is lay counseling and how does it compare? The primary difference between clinical and lay counselors is the topic of licensure. All clinical professionals are required by their state to meet certain requirements to practice as a counselor. The requirements vary depending on the state and range from academic training (i.e. Master’s degree from an accredited school) to number of hours in practicum. Lay counselors on the other hand are highly-trained volunteer counselors, but are not required by the state to have a license. Instead lay counselors operate under the close supervision of clinically-trained counselors via a caring program or ministry operated by a church or para-church organization. Seeing a lay counselor is not meant to replace professional therapy or counseling, but can be a valuable resource to people who—for a variety of reasons—may not be able to connect with a clinical counselor.Benefits of Lay Counseling
All counseling services have a plethora of benefits. In fact, studies continue to show that verbalizing our emotions and internal thoughts have a healing effect. However, seeing a lay counselor in particular has a unique of benefits for people considering this therapy option.Free Services
One of the biggest obstacles to counseling for many people is affordability. Since lay counselors are highly-trained volunteers—they do not charge for their services. They offer their care under the supervision of licensed professionals. Often times, they are key leaders serving because of past life experience(s) or a calling and passion to care for others.Connection to a Larger Community
Lay counselors generally operate through a larger organization—whether a church or para-church organization. Therefore in meeting with a lay counselor, you have the opportunity to connect with that organization at large and take advantage of the additional resources they might have available. For example, if you are seeing a lay counselor at a local church, you might discover that they offer a class/program specific to your life situation or a Bible study to help you connect with others.