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Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"You absolutely do not have too many issues for counselling. The fact that you are wanting to seek help is commendable and you should feel proud of yourself for reaching out for support. I know from my experience working with clients that some may say they have only one issue but when we explore it turns out they have many things that they want to discuss that are of equal importance. I believe that you deserve to feel happy, at ease and also get restful sleep amongst other things. Please do not feel hesitant because the fact that you know what you want to discuss and work on is amazing. You know the directions you want to go and the therapist just needs to help you get there.\'a0I suggest sitting down and making a list of what you want to discuss as well as what you feel is more important to address first. Perhaps the therapist can help you with that as well.",

"You do not have too many issues to address in counseling.\'a0 And your perseverance will serve you well if you choose to engage in therapy.\'a0 The trauma and medical event you experienced topped off with chronic sleepless nights would lead to feelings of depression for many.\'a0 The emotional reaction you've had to these experiences sounds normal albeit troublesome and I would imagine intensely painful at times as well.\'a0 Therapy can help prioritize what is the most impactful issue you are grappling with.\'a0 I find in therapy that when the central issue is revealed, understood, processed, and understood again in its current context, many other areas of the person's internal experience improve.\'a0 It sounds as though something has prevented you from seeking help from a counselor in the past, and it sounds as though you are more seriously considering it now.\'a0 Therapy helps and it can help you when you're ready.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"You absolutely do not have too many issues for counselling. The fact that you are wanting to seek help is commendable and you should feel proud of yourself for reaching out for support. I know from my experience working with clients that some may say they have only one issue but when we explore it turns out they have many things that they want to discuss that are of equal importance. I believe that you deserve to feel happy, at ease and also get restful sleep amongst other things. Please do not feel hesitant because the fact that you know what you want to discuss and work on is amazing. You know the directions you want to go and the therapist just needs to help you get there.\'a0I suggest sitting down and making a list of what you want to discuss as well as what you feel is more important to address first. Perhaps the therapist can help you with that as well.",

"Thank you for sharing your history. You do not have too many issues to address in counseling. It will help to prioritize what you would like to work on first in therapy. Your therapist will create a treatment plan with you, which can always be changed while working together. Therapy is a process in working towards your best life, and you deserve it.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"You absolutely do not have too many issues for counselling. The fact that you are wanting to seek help is commendable and you should feel proud of yourself for reaching out for support. I know from my experience working with clients that some may say they have only one issue but when we explore it turns out they have many things that they want to discuss that are of equal importance. I believe that you deserve to feel happy, at ease and also get restful sleep amongst other things. Please do not feel hesitant because the fact that you know what you want to discuss and work on is amazing. You know the directions you want to go and the therapist just needs to help you get there.\'a0I suggest sitting down and making a list of what you want to discuss as well as what you feel is more important to address first. Perhaps the therapist can help you with that as well.",

"Not at all! Whatever issues you might have you can bring to the therapy room. Remember therapy is about YOU, not your therapist. You bring whatever you need to bring to the table. Keep in mind these issues are likely related. Remember you are a holistic being, more than just the sum of the parts. Just like any system, when you move something in one area, things start changing in other areas as well. Talk to your therapist to decide goals for counseling and establish priorities, and ENJOY THE RIDE! Growing, flourishing, and finally letting go of what hurts can be a beautiful and exciting process.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"You absolutely do not have too many issues for counselling. The fact that you are wanting to seek help is commendable and you should feel proud of yourself for reaching out for support. I know from my experience working with clients that some may say they have only one issue but when we explore it turns out they have many things that they want to discuss that are of equal importance. I believe that you deserve to feel happy, at ease and also get restful sleep amongst other things. Please do not feel hesitant because the fact that you know what you want to discuss and work on is amazing. You know the directions you want to go and the therapist just needs to help you get there.\'a0I suggest sitting down and making a list of what you want to discuss as well as what you feel is more important to address first. Perhaps the therapist can help you with that as well.",

"You absolutely do not have ""too many issues"" for counseling. Your reaching out to ask this question shows you have a resilient spirit. Also, your happy marriage can be a support and strength to you as you embark on a counseling journey. I would recommend that you find a counselor who specializes in trauma, sexual trauma and/or EMDR (a type of therapy that is proven to have a strong impact on healing from trauma). Good luck!",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"You absolutely do not have too many issues for counselling. The fact that you are wanting to seek help is commendable and you should feel proud of yourself for reaching out for support. I know from my experience working with clients that some may say they have only one issue but when we explore it turns out they have many things that they want to discuss that are of equal importance. I believe that you deserve to feel happy, at ease and also get restful sleep amongst other things. Please do not feel hesitant because the fact that you know what you want to discuss and work on is amazing. You know the directions you want to go and the therapist just needs to help you get there.\'a0I suggest sitting down and making a list of what you want to discuss as well as what you feel is more important to address first. Perhaps the therapist can help you with that as well.",

"I don't think you have too many issues for counseling.\'a0 If a client came to me for help with the same issues that you have listed here I would first want them to meet with their doctor to get a physical to rule out any biological causes to your depression, anxiety, and insomnia.\'a0 I would work with you on deciding which of these issues to tackle first.\'a0 I usually suggest starting with the issue that is easiest.\'a0 Reading through your symptoms I might choose anxiety to start with since you are in the early stages of it.\'a0 I like to give my client skills they can use right away, so I would focus on teaching you breathing exercises to manage the anxiety as well as cognitive restructuring so that when an anxious thought pops up you can talk yourself through it.\'a0 Once you felt that you had some control over the anxiety I'd start to work on some of your other concerns, but I would seek your input on what you felt like might be good to work on next.\'a0 My gut is that some of these issues would be resolved as you worked on others.\'a0 For example as you worked on your anxiety and began to process your trauma and as you began to work on self care and getting more sleep - your self esteem would probably improve.\'a0 I encourage you to meet with a therapist and ask them how they might be able to help you.\'a0 These are just some thoughts that came up for me on how I might help someone with the same or similar symptoms.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"You absolutely do not have too many issues for counselling. The fact that you are wanting to seek help is commendable and you should feel proud of yourself for reaching out for support. I know from my experience working with clients that some may say they have only one issue but when we explore it turns out they have many things that they want to discuss that are of equal importance. I believe that you deserve to feel happy, at ease and also get restful sleep amongst other things. Please do not feel hesitant because the fact that you know what you want to discuss and work on is amazing. You know the directions you want to go and the therapist just needs to help you get there.\'a0I suggest sitting down and making a list of what you want to discuss as well as what you feel is more important to address first. Perhaps the therapist can help you with that as well.",

"The way it goes is that all your issues are connected. Once you work on one issue it will have a positive effect on all areas. Slowly each issue is addressed and actually less issues will need to be addressed directly since resolving one helps your overall wellness. So no, you do not have too many issues. Don\'92t give up. Get help now and see how your life can change for the better.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"You absolutely do not have too many issues for counselling. The fact that you are wanting to seek help is commendable and you should feel proud of yourself for reaching out for support. I know from my experience working with clients that some may say they have only one issue but when we explore it turns out they have many things that they want to discuss that are of equal importance. I believe that you deserve to feel happy, at ease and also get restful sleep amongst other things. Please do not feel hesitant because the fact that you know what you want to discuss and work on is amazing. You know the directions you want to go and the therapist just needs to help you get there.\'a0I suggest sitting down and making a list of what you want to discuss as well as what you feel is more important to address first. Perhaps the therapist can help you with that as well.",

"I think this is a very common question that people who have never been to counseling before have. \'a0There is a lot of anxiety in going to counseling for the first time. \'a0This is normal. \'a0In answer to your \'a0question, the answer is an absolute NO! \'a0An important thing to remember about getting counseling is that it is a courageous first step towards hope and healing. \'a0Getting help is like training to run a marathon, it is not a sprint. \'a0You have shared a lot of issues that you are dealing with from your past, that are now negatively impacting your present, but I believe that in getting the right kind of help and support, none of them are impossible to overcome. \'a0Part of the therapeutic process is defining and prioritizing therapy goals. \'a0In collaboration with you, as a client, a therapist is there to help you with this process in determining what you would like to work on first. \'a0Not getting counseling, based on the history you have shared, has the potential to put you more at risk for mental and physical health issues. \'a0You are already seeing this happen as you begin to experience new symptoms, namely your anxiety. \'a0In therapy, you will gain understanding and insight, as well as learn skills and strategies to manage the symptoms you are experiencing.In conclusion, I would encourage you to reach out to a licensed counselor who has experience in treating trauma, grief/loss and will address shame. \'a0These are three areas that I have found that gets to \'a0the core issues that are contributing to your depression and anxiety. \'a0 I believe you can get the help you need to find hope and healing. \'a0Best of luck to you!",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"You absolutely do not have too many issues for counselling. The fact that you are wanting to seek help is commendable and you should feel proud of yourself for reaching out for support. I know from my experience working with clients that some may say they have only one issue but when we explore it turns out they have many things that they want to discuss that are of equal importance. I believe that you deserve to feel happy, at ease and also get restful sleep amongst other things. Please do not feel hesitant because the fact that you know what you want to discuss and work on is amazing. You know the directions you want to go and the therapist just needs to help you get there.\'a0I suggest sitting down and making a list of what you want to discuss as well as what you feel is more important to address first. Perhaps the therapist can help you with that as well.",

"Hello, I'm so glad you decided to take the first step in opening a conversation first. Deciding to go to therapy can sometimes be difficult for some, but with the right therapist, healing is possible and obtainable, even with what you've described. To answer your question, no you do not have too many issues to go to counseling. \'a0You've been through a lot and have been strong and at times it's helpful to have someone else to help you through it.\'a0What I would say is to be sure and find a therapist who is experienced in sexual abuse and trauma overall. But you absolutely do not have too many issues for counseling. Please feel free to ask any other questions you may have regarding your situation and I hope you find the therapist you're looking for, there are many great ones out there. Many of the issues you're experiencing may be tied together from the trauma.\'a0Best Wishes.\'a0Laura Cassity, LMSW, LMAC",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"You absolutely do not have too many issues for counselling. The fact that you are wanting to seek help is commendable and you should feel proud of yourself for reaching out for support. I know from my experience working with clients that some may say they have only one issue but when we explore it turns out they have many things that they want to discuss that are of equal importance. I believe that you deserve to feel happy, at ease and also get restful sleep amongst other things. Please do not feel hesitant because the fact that you know what you want to discuss and work on is amazing. You know the directions you want to go and the therapist just needs to help you get there.\'a0I suggest sitting down and making a list of what you want to discuss as well as what you feel is more important to address first. Perhaps the therapist can help you with that as well.",

"Not at all my dear.\'a0Human beings are complex creatures, and in my opinion, our issues interconnect in a very nuanced web between our levels of being (for example, mind, body, and spirit). Everything you bring up affects all three. The truly beautiful thing about the human body is that when you begin to work on one, the others improve as well!I would encourage you to seek out a counselor who's style and approach speaks to you and start with whichever issue feels most pressing to you. A skilled therapist will flow with you at your own pace and make recommendations to other professionals (e.g., physicians, holistic practitioners, EMDR specialists for trauma etc) as needed to complement the psychotherapy work you're doing with him or her to help you find the total healing you seek.\'a0I wish you well on your journey!",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"You absolutely do not have too many issues for counselling. The fact that you are wanting to seek help is commendable and you should feel proud of yourself for reaching out for support. I know from my experience working with clients that some may say they have only one issue but when we explore it turns out they have many things that they want to discuss that are of equal importance. I believe that you deserve to feel happy, at ease and also get restful sleep amongst other things. Please do not feel hesitant because the fact that you know what you want to discuss and work on is amazing. You know the directions you want to go and the therapist just needs to help you get there.\'a0I suggest sitting down and making a list of what you want to discuss as well as what you feel is more important to address first. Perhaps the therapist can help you with that as well.",

"Everyone has topics to discuss when they start therapy. \'a0 There is no correct number of topics.youSometimes people go to therapy for one specific area of their life. \'a0\'a0Not everyone has the time or interest to utilize therapy just when a significant topic arises in their life.Since you are one person, no matter how many or few topics you would like to address in therapy, all the topics relate to you.Possibly the result of your therapy will be more transformational than if you talked only on one topic. \'a0Lucky you, to be on the cusp of clearing and resolving many vulnerabilities at once. \'a0 You will feel brand new by the time you finish your therapy work!",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"Thank you for sharing your question.\'a0 I imagine it feels overwhelming and discouraging at times if you feel like there are too many issues to address in a counseling session.\'a0 I would encourage you to share these concerns with a counselor because a counselor can help you organize the concerns into a list of specific goals.\'a0 For example, a list of goals may look similar to this:1.\'a0 ""I will learn about the effects of medication on the symptoms of depression and anxiety.""2.\'a0 ""I will learn about the factors that affect insomnia.""3.\'a0 ""I will learn about resources and support groups in my local area to help me cope with my traumatic experiences.""4.\'a0 ""I will practice self-care exercises each day and write about my thoughts and feelings in a journal so I can measure whether or not I""m making progress.""This is an example of some of the possible goals a counselor can help you work toward each week.\'a0 Working toward a specific goal can lead to a feeling of accomplishment once you've completed it, and this may have a positive impact on your self-esteem.\'a0\'a0I hope this information helps, and I wish you all the best!",

"There are never too many issues in living. In a way we take on too many issues at one time. Then we become over whelmed with ""anxiety and depression.""\'a0 A skillful, caring therapist will help you find a place to start and deal with one issue at a time. when this helps the other issues. Then the other issues become more manageable. I gain. confidence I can take on life better and, importantly , enjoy living life more. My best to you. Dr. Spencer",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never ""too many issues"" to be addressed in therapy.\'a0 Most people come in with multiple issues they want to address.\'a0 The wonderful thing about therapy, is that often, as one or more significant issues begin to change and improve-\'a0 \'a0the lead naturally without much effort to improvements in the other areas.\'a0 (For example, as you begin to address trauma and betrayal from you past, you may find that the insomnia improves). Your therapist, with you input and direction, can help you to prioritize which problem areas to target first.",

"Thank you for sharing your question.\'a0 I imagine it feels overwhelming and discouraging at times if you feel like there are too many issues to address in a counseling session.\'a0 I would encourage you to share these concerns with a counselor because a counselor can help you organize the concerns into a list of specific goals.\'a0 For example, a list of goals may look similar to this:1.\'a0 ""I will learn about the effects of medication on the symptoms of depression and anxiety.""2.\'a0 ""I will learn about the factors that affect insomnia.""3.\'a0 ""I will learn about resources and support groups in my local area to help me cope with my traumatic experiences.""4.\'a0 ""I will practice self-care exercises each day and write about my thoughts and feelings in a journal so I can measure whether or not I""m making progress.""This is an example of some of the possible goals a counselor can help you work toward each week.\'a0 Working toward a specific goal can lead to a feeling of accomplishment once you've completed it, and this may have a positive impact on your self-esteem.\'a0\'a0I hope this information helps, and I wish you all the best!",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"Thank you for sharing your question.\'a0 I imagine it feels overwhelming and discouraging at times if you feel like there are too many issues to address in a counseling session.\'a0 I would encourage you to share these concerns with a counselor because a counselor can help you organize the concerns into a list of specific goals.\'a0 For example, a list of goals may look similar to this:1.\'a0 ""I will learn about the effects of medication on the symptoms of depression and anxiety.""2.\'a0 ""I will learn about the factors that affect insomnia.""3.\'a0 ""I will learn about resources and support groups in my local area to help me cope with my traumatic experiences.""4.\'a0 ""I will practice self-care exercises each day and write about my thoughts and feelings in a journal so I can measure whether or not I""m making progress.""This is an example of some of the possible goals a counselor can help you work toward each week.\'a0 Working toward a specific goal can lead to a feeling of accomplishment once you've completed it, and this may have a positive impact on your self-esteem.\'a0\'a0I hope this information helps, and I wish you all the best!",

"You can be helped. Many of the people I see have multiple issues. These issues are often linked so that helping one issue will positively help the other issues.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"Thank you for sharing your question.\'a0 I imagine it feels overwhelming and discouraging at times if you feel like there are too many issues to address in a counseling session.\'a0 I would encourage you to share these concerns with a counselor because a counselor can help you organize the concerns into a list of specific goals.\'a0 For example, a list of goals may look similar to this:1.\'a0 ""I will learn about the effects of medication on the symptoms of depression and anxiety.""2.\'a0 ""I will learn about the factors that affect insomnia.""3.\'a0 ""I will learn about resources and support groups in my local area to help me cope with my traumatic experiences.""4.\'a0 ""I will practice self-care exercises each day and write about my thoughts and feelings in a journal so I can measure whether or not I""m making progress.""This is an example of some of the possible goals a counselor can help you work toward each week.\'a0 Working toward a specific goal can lead to a feeling of accomplishment once you've completed it, and this may have a positive impact on your self-esteem.\'a0\'a0I hope this information helps, and I wish you all the best!",

"The short answer is: absolutely not! The longer answer is that it might take some time to process all of the issues, and it may feel quite ""muddy"" in the issues for a lot longer than is tolerable (which is why counseling may have been postponed to begin with for you.) It's important to be realistic when entering counseling of any sort, and that the therapist be realistic with you about what you might be able to expect working with that person (I use the words ""might be able to expect"" because therapy experiences can vary.) But that not having counseling about trauma that you have experienced much earlier in your life can play a significant role in the process and how long that process could take to unpack all that may have been buried over time.It might also be helpful in counseling to work with the therapist on figuring out where to begin, but to also manage the feelings of being overwhelmed that may make it hard to continue to show up and do the work required, week in and week out. It isn't easy work trying to process past pain that you experienced, and so consistent practice of self-care, including leaning on support systems outside of therapy, is key.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"Usually people who struggle with depression also have symptoms of anxiety. These symptoms come about as a result of underlying causes. The obstacles you have been overcoming such as abuse, cancer and insomnia likely bring about similar feelings and emotions in you which affect your self-esteem. Counseling is meant to support people who have layers of difficulties. We see the difficulties as layers to an onion, peeling away the many layers.",

"Thank you for sharing your question.\'a0 I imagine it feels overwhelming and discouraging at times if you feel like there are too many issues to address in a counseling session.\'a0 I would encourage you to share these concerns with a counselor because a counselor can help you organize the concerns into a list of specific goals.\'a0 For example, a list of goals may look similar to this:1.\'a0 ""I will learn about the effects of medication on the symptoms of depression and anxiety.""2.\'a0 ""I will learn about the factors that affect insomnia.""3.\'a0 ""I will learn about resources and support groups in my local area to help me cope with my traumatic experiences.""4.\'a0 ""I will practice self-care exercises each day and write about my thoughts and feelings in a journal so I can measure whether or not I""m making progress.""This is an example of some of the possible goals a counselor can help you work toward each week.\'a0 Working toward a specific goal can lead to a feeling of accomplishment once you've completed it, and this may have a positive impact on your self-esteem.\'a0\'a0I hope this information helps, and I wish you all the best!",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"Often times when an individual begins the counseling process it is revealed that there is more than one thing going on. When we think about how much is wrong, it can be overwhelming and we may not know where to even start. Counseling can provide guidance to help you to begin working toward healing in a way that is most helpful for you to reach your goals.",

"Thank you for sharing your question.\'a0 I imagine it feels overwhelming and discouraging at times if you feel like there are too many issues to address in a counseling session.\'a0 I would encourage you to share these concerns with a counselor because a counselor can help you organize the concerns into a list of specific goals.\'a0 For example, a list of goals may look similar to this:1.\'a0 ""I will learn about the effects of medication on the symptoms of depression and anxiety.""2.\'a0 ""I will learn about the factors that affect insomnia.""3.\'a0 ""I will learn about resources and support groups in my local area to help me cope with my traumatic experiences.""4.\'a0 ""I will practice self-care exercises each day and write about my thoughts and feelings in a journal so I can measure whether or not I""m making progress.""This is an example of some of the possible goals a counselor can help you work toward each week.\'a0 Working toward a specific goal can lead to a feeling of accomplishment once you've completed it, and this may have a positive impact on your self-esteem.\'a0\'a0I hope this information helps, and I wish you all the best!",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"Thank you for sharing your question.\'a0 I imagine it feels overwhelming and discouraging at times if you feel like there are too many issues to address in a counseling session.\'a0 I would encourage you to share these concerns with a counselor because a counselor can help you organize the concerns into a list of specific goals.\'a0 For example, a list of goals may look similar to this:1.\'a0 ""I will learn about the effects of medication on the symptoms of depression and anxiety.""2.\'a0 ""I will learn about the factors that affect insomnia.""3.\'a0 ""I will learn about resources and support groups in my local area to help me cope with my traumatic experiences.""4.\'a0 ""I will practice self-care exercises each day and write about my thoughts and feelings in a journal so I can measure whether or not I""m making progress.""This is an example of some of the possible goals a counselor can help you work toward each week.\'a0 Working toward a specific goal can lead to a feeling of accomplishment once you've completed it, and this may have a positive impact on your self-esteem.\'a0\'a0I hope this information helps, and I wish you all the best!",

"It is very common for\'a0people to have multiple issues that they want to (and need to) address in counseling.\'a0 I have had clients ask that same question and through more exploration, there is often an underlying fear that they\'a0 ""can't be helped"" or that they will ""be too much for their therapist."" I don't know if any of this rings true for you. But, most people have more than one problem in their lives and more often than not,\'a0 people have numerous significant stressors in their lives.\'a0 Let's face it, life can be complicated! Therapists are completely ready and equipped to handle all of the issues small or large that a client presents in session. Most therapists over the first couple of sessions will help you prioritize the issues you are facing so that you start addressing the issues that are causing you the most distress.\'a0 You can never have too many issues to address in counseling.\'a0 All of the issues you mention above can be successfully worked through in counseling.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"Thank you for sharing your question.\'a0 I imagine it feels overwhelming and discouraging at times if you feel like there are too many issues to address in a counseling session.\'a0 I would encourage you to share these concerns with a counselor because a counselor can help you organize the concerns into a list of specific goals.\'a0 For example, a list of goals may look similar to this:1.\'a0 ""I will learn about the effects of medication on the symptoms of depression and anxiety.""2.\'a0 ""I will learn about the factors that affect insomnia.""3.\'a0 ""I will learn about resources and support groups in my local area to help me cope with my traumatic experiences.""4.\'a0 ""I will practice self-care exercises each day and write about my thoughts and feelings in a journal so I can measure whether or not I""m making progress.""This is an example of some of the possible goals a counselor can help you work toward each week.\'a0 Working toward a specific goal can lead to a feeling of accomplishment once you've completed it, and this may have a positive impact on your self-esteem.\'a0\'a0I hope this information helps, and I wish you all the best!",

"Absolutely not! When we have the courage to accept the challenge to address whatever is causing us pain, the solutions often generalize to many, if not all of our symptoms. I would suggest that unresolved trauma from sexual abuse is likely a primary contributing factor. However, it is important that you first build a trusting relationship with a therapist experienced in trauma treatment as this is an area of specialty that not all therapists are skilled in treating. Choosing one issue to work on, such as anxiety or depressive symptoms, and starting there will allow you the opportunity to get to know your therapist, learn coping skills for managing distressing symptoms, and establish emotional safety before jumping into trauma work.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"Thank you for sharing your question.\'a0 I imagine it feels overwhelming and discouraging at times if you feel like there are too many issues to address in a counseling session.\'a0 I would encourage you to share these concerns with a counselor because a counselor can help you organize the concerns into a list of specific goals.\'a0 For example, a list of goals may look similar to this:1.\'a0 ""I will learn about the effects of medication on the symptoms of depression and anxiety.""2.\'a0 ""I will learn about the factors that affect insomnia.""3.\'a0 ""I will learn about resources and support groups in my local area to help me cope with my traumatic experiences.""4.\'a0 ""I will practice self-care exercises each day and write about my thoughts and feelings in a journal so I can measure whether or not I""m making progress.""This is an example of some of the possible goals a counselor can help you work toward each week.\'a0 Working toward a specific goal can lead to a feeling of accomplishment once you've completed it, and this may have a positive impact on your self-esteem.\'a0\'a0I hope this information helps, and I wish you all the best!",

"Hello there,No one has too many issues to address in counseling. Once you start counseling, your therapist will help you identify which issues to start working on first and which are causing you the most distress. Once you and your therapist prioritize your concerns, you can start to address each concern, starting with the one causing the most distress for you.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"Thank you for sharing your question.\'a0 I imagine it feels overwhelming and discouraging at times if you feel like there are too many issues to address in a counseling session.\'a0 I would encourage you to share these concerns with a counselor because a counselor can help you organize the concerns into a list of specific goals.\'a0 For example, a list of goals may look similar to this:1.\'a0 ""I will learn about the effects of medication on the symptoms of depression and anxiety.""2.\'a0 ""I will learn about the factors that affect insomnia.""3.\'a0 ""I will learn about resources and support groups in my local area to help me cope with my traumatic experiences.""4.\'a0 ""I will practice self-care exercises each day and write about my thoughts and feelings in a journal so I can measure whether or not I""m making progress.""This is an example of some of the possible goals a counselor can help you work toward each week.\'a0 Working toward a specific goal can lead to a feeling of accomplishment once you've completed it, and this may have a positive impact on your self-esteem.\'a0\'a0I hope this information helps, and I wish you all the best!",

"It sounds like you are feeling pretty overwhelmed. But you are also a survivor and have the benefit of a long, stable marriage. You do not have too many issues to address in counseling. A good therapist will help you to partialize your goals into smaller objectives and focus in on what's most pressing for you to address first in treatment.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"Thank you for sharing your question.\'a0 I imagine it feels overwhelming and discouraging at times if you feel like there are too many issues to address in a counseling session.\'a0 I would encourage you to share these concerns with a counselor because a counselor can help you organize the concerns into a list of specific goals.\'a0 For example, a list of goals may look similar to this:1.\'a0 ""I will learn about the effects of medication on the symptoms of depression and anxiety.""2.\'a0 ""I will learn about the factors that affect insomnia.""3.\'a0 ""I will learn about resources and support groups in my local area to help me cope with my traumatic experiences.""4.\'a0 ""I will practice self-care exercises each day and write about my thoughts and feelings in a journal so I can measure whether or not I""m making progress.""This is an example of some of the possible goals a counselor can help you work toward each week.\'a0 Working toward a specific goal can lead to a feeling of accomplishment once you've completed it, and this may have a positive impact on your self-esteem.\'a0\'a0I hope this information helps, and I wish you all the best!",

"Hello! You may have heard the saying that counseling is like peeling the layers of an onion. Whether a person comes to therapy with many issues on their heart and mind or whether he/she comes with something specific, one issue leads to another. Please don't feel as though you have too many issues. You are important and worthy. On the plus side, \'a0you are a breast cancer survivor and have a wonderful marriage! Seek the help that you deserve.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"Thank you for sharing your question.\'a0 I imagine it feels overwhelming and discouraging at times if you feel like there are too many issues to address in a counseling session.\'a0 I would encourage you to share these concerns with a counselor because a counselor can help you organize the concerns into a list of specific goals.\'a0 For example, a list of goals may look similar to this:1.\'a0 ""I will learn about the effects of medication on the symptoms of depression and anxiety.""2.\'a0 ""I will learn about the factors that affect insomnia.""3.\'a0 ""I will learn about resources and support groups in my local area to help me cope with my traumatic experiences.""4.\'a0 ""I will practice self-care exercises each day and write about my thoughts and feelings in a journal so I can measure whether or not I""m making progress.""This is an example of some of the possible goals a counselor can help you work toward each week.\'a0 Working toward a specific goal can lead to a feeling of accomplishment once you've completed it, and this may have a positive impact on your self-esteem.\'a0\'a0I hope this information helps, and I wish you all the best!",

"You do not have too many issues to address in counseling.\'a0 And your perseverance will serve you well if you choose to engage in therapy.\'a0 The trauma and medical event you experienced topped off with chronic sleepless nights would lead to feelings of depression for many.\'a0 The emotional reaction you've had to these experiences sounds normal albeit troublesome and I would imagine intensely painful at times as well.\'a0 Therapy can help prioritize what is the most impactful issue you are grappling with.\'a0 I find in therapy that when the central issue is revealed, understood, processed, and understood again in its current context, many other areas of the person's internal experience improve.\'a0 It sounds as though something has prevented you from seeking help from a counselor in the past, and it sounds as though you are more seriously considering it now.\'a0 Therapy helps and it can help you when you're ready.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"Thank you for sharing your question.\'a0 I imagine it feels overwhelming and discouraging at times if you feel like there are too many issues to address in a counseling session.\'a0 I would encourage you to share these concerns with a counselor because a counselor can help you organize the concerns into a list of specific goals.\'a0 For example, a list of goals may look similar to this:1.\'a0 ""I will learn about the effects of medication on the symptoms of depression and anxiety.""2.\'a0 ""I will learn about the factors that affect insomnia.""3.\'a0 ""I will learn about resources and support groups in my local area to help me cope with my traumatic experiences.""4.\'a0 ""I will practice self-care exercises each day and write about my thoughts and feelings in a journal so I can measure whether or not I""m making progress.""This is an example of some of the possible goals a counselor can help you work toward each week.\'a0 Working toward a specific goal can lead to a feeling of accomplishment once you've completed it, and this may have a positive impact on your self-esteem.\'a0\'a0I hope this information helps, and I wish you all the best!",

"Thank you for sharing your history. You do not have too many issues to address in counseling. It will help to prioritize what you would like to work on first in therapy. Your therapist will create a treatment plan with you, which can always be changed while working together. Therapy is a process in working towards your best life, and you deserve it.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"Thank you for sharing your question.\'a0 I imagine it feels overwhelming and discouraging at times if you feel like there are too many issues to address in a counseling session.\'a0 I would encourage you to share these concerns with a counselor because a counselor can help you organize the concerns into a list of specific goals.\'a0 For example, a list of goals may look similar to this:1.\'a0 ""I will learn about the effects of medication on the symptoms of depression and anxiety.""2.\'a0 ""I will learn about the factors that affect insomnia.""3.\'a0 ""I will learn about resources and support groups in my local area to help me cope with my traumatic experiences.""4.\'a0 ""I will practice self-care exercises each day and write about my thoughts and feelings in a journal so I can measure whether or not I""m making progress.""This is an example of some of the possible goals a counselor can help you work toward each week.\'a0 Working toward a specific goal can lead to a feeling of accomplishment once you've completed it, and this may have a positive impact on your self-esteem.\'a0\'a0I hope this information helps, and I wish you all the best!",

"Not at all! Whatever issues you might have you can bring to the therapy room. Remember therapy is about YOU, not your therapist. You bring whatever you need to bring to the table. Keep in mind these issues are likely related. Remember you are a holistic being, more than just the sum of the parts. Just like any system, when you move something in one area, things start changing in other areas as well. Talk to your therapist to decide goals for counseling and establish priorities, and ENJOY THE RIDE! Growing, flourishing, and finally letting go of what hurts can be a beautiful and exciting process.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"Thank you for sharing your question.\'a0 I imagine it feels overwhelming and discouraging at times if you feel like there are too many issues to address in a counseling session.\'a0 I would encourage you to share these concerns with a counselor because a counselor can help you organize the concerns into a list of specific goals.\'a0 For example, a list of goals may look similar to this:1.\'a0 ""I will learn about the effects of medication on the symptoms of depression and anxiety.""2.\'a0 ""I will learn about the factors that affect insomnia.""3.\'a0 ""I will learn about resources and support groups in my local area to help me cope with my traumatic experiences.""4.\'a0 ""I will practice self-care exercises each day and write about my thoughts and feelings in a journal so I can measure whether or not I""m making progress.""This is an example of some of the possible goals a counselor can help you work toward each week.\'a0 Working toward a specific goal can lead to a feeling of accomplishment once you've completed it, and this may have a positive impact on your self-esteem.\'a0\'a0I hope this information helps, and I wish you all the best!",

"You absolutely do not have ""too many issues"" for counseling. Your reaching out to ask this question shows you have a resilient spirit. Also, your happy marriage can be a support and strength to you as you embark on a counseling journey. I would recommend that you find a counselor who specializes in trauma, sexual trauma and/or EMDR (a type of therapy that is proven to have a strong impact on healing from trauma). Good luck!",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"Thank you for sharing your question.\'a0 I imagine it feels overwhelming and discouraging at times if you feel like there are too many issues to address in a counseling session.\'a0 I would encourage you to share these concerns with a counselor because a counselor can help you organize the concerns into a list of specific goals.\'a0 For example, a list of goals may look similar to this:1.\'a0 ""I will learn about the effects of medication on the symptoms of depression and anxiety.""2.\'a0 ""I will learn about the factors that affect insomnia.""3.\'a0 ""I will learn about resources and support groups in my local area to help me cope with my traumatic experiences.""4.\'a0 ""I will practice self-care exercises each day and write about my thoughts and feelings in a journal so I can measure whether or not I""m making progress.""This is an example of some of the possible goals a counselor can help you work toward each week.\'a0 Working toward a specific goal can lead to a feeling of accomplishment once you've completed it, and this may have a positive impact on your self-esteem.\'a0\'a0I hope this information helps, and I wish you all the best!",

"I don't think you have too many issues for counseling.\'a0 If a client came to me for help with the same issues that you have listed here I would first want them to meet with their doctor to get a physical to rule out any biological causes to your depression, anxiety, and insomnia.\'a0 I would work with you on deciding which of these issues to tackle first.\'a0 I usually suggest starting with the issue that is easiest.\'a0 Reading through your symptoms I might choose anxiety to start with since you are in the early stages of it.\'a0 I like to give my client skills they can use right away, so I would focus on teaching you breathing exercises to manage the anxiety as well as cognitive restructuring so that when an anxious thought pops up you can talk yourself through it.\'a0 Once you felt that you had some control over the anxiety I'd start to work on some of your other concerns, but I would seek your input on what you felt like might be good to work on next.\'a0 My gut is that some of these issues would be resolved as you worked on others.\'a0 For example as you worked on your anxiety and began to process your trauma and as you began to work on self care and getting more sleep - your self esteem would probably improve.\'a0 I encourage you to meet with a therapist and ask them how they might be able to help you.\'a0 These are just some thoughts that came up for me on how I might help someone with the same or similar symptoms.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"Thank you for sharing your question.\'a0 I imagine it feels overwhelming and discouraging at times if you feel like there are too many issues to address in a counseling session.\'a0 I would encourage you to share these concerns with a counselor because a counselor can help you organize the concerns into a list of specific goals.\'a0 For example, a list of goals may look similar to this:1.\'a0 ""I will learn about the effects of medication on the symptoms of depression and anxiety.""2.\'a0 ""I will learn about the factors that affect insomnia.""3.\'a0 ""I will learn about resources and support groups in my local area to help me cope with my traumatic experiences.""4.\'a0 ""I will practice self-care exercises each day and write about my thoughts and feelings in a journal so I can measure whether or not I""m making progress.""This is an example of some of the possible goals a counselor can help you work toward each week.\'a0 Working toward a specific goal can lead to a feeling of accomplishment once you've completed it, and this may have a positive impact on your self-esteem.\'a0\'a0I hope this information helps, and I wish you all the best!",

"The way it goes is that all your issues are connected. Once you work on one issue it will have a positive effect on all areas. Slowly each issue is addressed and actually less issues will need to be addressed directly since resolving one helps your overall wellness. So no, you do not have too many issues. Don\'92t give up. Get help now and see how your life can change for the better.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"Thank you for sharing your question.\'a0 I imagine it feels overwhelming and discouraging at times if you feel like there are too many issues to address in a counseling session.\'a0 I would encourage you to share these concerns with a counselor because a counselor can help you organize the concerns into a list of specific goals.\'a0 For example, a list of goals may look similar to this:1.\'a0 ""I will learn about the effects of medication on the symptoms of depression and anxiety.""2.\'a0 ""I will learn about the factors that affect insomnia.""3.\'a0 ""I will learn about resources and support groups in my local area to help me cope with my traumatic experiences.""4.\'a0 ""I will practice self-care exercises each day and write about my thoughts and feelings in a journal so I can measure whether or not I""m making progress.""This is an example of some of the possible goals a counselor can help you work toward each week.\'a0 Working toward a specific goal can lead to a feeling of accomplishment once you've completed it, and this may have a positive impact on your self-esteem.\'a0\'a0I hope this information helps, and I wish you all the best!",

"I think this is a very common question that people who have never been to counseling before have. \'a0There is a lot of anxiety in going to counseling for the first time. \'a0This is normal. \'a0In answer to your \'a0question, the answer is an absolute NO! \'a0An important thing to remember about getting counseling is that it is a courageous first step towards hope and healing. \'a0Getting help is like training to run a marathon, it is not a sprint. \'a0You have shared a lot of issues that you are dealing with from your past, that are now negatively impacting your present, but I believe that in getting the right kind of help and support, none of them are impossible to overcome. \'a0Part of the therapeutic process is defining and prioritizing therapy goals. \'a0In collaboration with you, as a client, a therapist is there to help you with this process in determining what you would like to work on first. \'a0Not getting counseling, based on the history you have shared, has the potential to put you more at risk for mental and physical health issues. \'a0You are already seeing this happen as you begin to experience new symptoms, namely your anxiety. \'a0In therapy, you will gain understanding and insight, as well as learn skills and strategies to manage the symptoms you are experiencing.In conclusion, I would encourage you to reach out to a licensed counselor who has experience in treating trauma, grief/loss and will address shame. \'a0These are three areas that I have found that gets to \'a0the core issues that are contributing to your depression and anxiety. \'a0 I believe you can get the help you need to find hope and healing. \'a0Best of luck to you!",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"Thank you for sharing your question.\'a0 I imagine it feels overwhelming and discouraging at times if you feel like there are too many issues to address in a counseling session.\'a0 I would encourage you to share these concerns with a counselor because a counselor can help you organize the concerns into a list of specific goals.\'a0 For example, a list of goals may look similar to this:1.\'a0 ""I will learn about the effects of medication on the symptoms of depression and anxiety.""2.\'a0 ""I will learn about the factors that affect insomnia.""3.\'a0 ""I will learn about resources and support groups in my local area to help me cope with my traumatic experiences.""4.\'a0 ""I will practice self-care exercises each day and write about my thoughts and feelings in a journal so I can measure whether or not I""m making progress.""This is an example of some of the possible goals a counselor can help you work toward each week.\'a0 Working toward a specific goal can lead to a feeling of accomplishment once you've completed it, and this may have a positive impact on your self-esteem.\'a0\'a0I hope this information helps, and I wish you all the best!",

"Hello, I'm so glad you decided to take the first step in opening a conversation first. Deciding to go to therapy can sometimes be difficult for some, but with the right therapist, healing is possible and obtainable, even with what you've described. To answer your question, no you do not have too many issues to go to counseling. \'a0You've been through a lot and have been strong and at times it's helpful to have someone else to help you through it.\'a0What I would say is to be sure and find a therapist who is experienced in sexual abuse and trauma overall. But you absolutely do not have too many issues for counseling. Please feel free to ask any other questions you may have regarding your situation and I hope you find the therapist you're looking for, there are many great ones out there. Many of the issues you're experiencing may be tied together from the trauma.\'a0Best Wishes.\'a0Laura Cassity, LMSW, LMAC",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"Thank you for sharing your question.\'a0 I imagine it feels overwhelming and discouraging at times if you feel like there are too many issues to address in a counseling session.\'a0 I would encourage you to share these concerns with a counselor because a counselor can help you organize the concerns into a list of specific goals.\'a0 For example, a list of goals may look similar to this:1.\'a0 ""I will learn about the effects of medication on the symptoms of depression and anxiety.""2.\'a0 ""I will learn about the factors that affect insomnia.""3.\'a0 ""I will learn about resources and support groups in my local area to help me cope with my traumatic experiences.""4.\'a0 ""I will practice self-care exercises each day and write about my thoughts and feelings in a journal so I can measure whether or not I""m making progress.""This is an example of some of the possible goals a counselor can help you work toward each week.\'a0 Working toward a specific goal can lead to a feeling of accomplishment once you've completed it, and this may have a positive impact on your self-esteem.\'a0\'a0I hope this information helps, and I wish you all the best!",

"Not at all my dear.\'a0Human beings are complex creatures, and in my opinion, our issues interconnect in a very nuanced web between our levels of being (for example, mind, body, and spirit). Everything you bring up affects all three. The truly beautiful thing about the human body is that when you begin to work on one, the others improve as well!I would encourage you to seek out a counselor who's style and approach speaks to you and start with whichever issue feels most pressing to you. A skilled therapist will flow with you at your own pace and make recommendations to other professionals (e.g., physicians, holistic practitioners, EMDR specialists for trauma etc) as needed to complement the psychotherapy work you're doing with him or her to help you find the total healing you seek.\'a0I wish you well on your journey!",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"Thank you for sharing your question.\'a0 I imagine it feels overwhelming and discouraging at times if you feel like there are too many issues to address in a counseling session.\'a0 I would encourage you to share these concerns with a counselor because a counselor can help you organize the concerns into a list of specific goals.\'a0 For example, a list of goals may look similar to this:1.\'a0 ""I will learn about the effects of medication on the symptoms of depression and anxiety.""2.\'a0 ""I will learn about the factors that affect insomnia.""3.\'a0 ""I will learn about resources and support groups in my local area to help me cope with my traumatic experiences.""4.\'a0 ""I will practice self-care exercises each day and write about my thoughts and feelings in a journal so I can measure whether or not I""m making progress.""This is an example of some of the possible goals a counselor can help you work toward each week.\'a0 Working toward a specific goal can lead to a feeling of accomplishment once you've completed it, and this may have a positive impact on your self-esteem.\'a0\'a0I hope this information helps, and I wish you all the best!",

"Everyone has topics to discuss when they start therapy. \'a0 There is no correct number of topics.youSometimes people go to therapy for one specific area of their life. \'a0\'a0Not everyone has the time or interest to utilize therapy just when a significant topic arises in their life.Since you are one person, no matter how many or few topics you would like to address in therapy, all the topics relate to you.Possibly the result of your therapy will be more transformational than if you talked only on one topic. \'a0Lucky you, to be on the cusp of clearing and resolving many vulnerabilities at once. \'a0 You will feel brand new by the time you finish your therapy work!",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never ""too many issues"" to be addressed in therapy.\'a0 Most people come in with multiple issues they want to address.\'a0 The wonderful thing about therapy, is that often, as one or more significant issues begin to change and improve-\'a0 \'a0the lead naturally without much effort to improvements in the other areas.\'a0 (For example, as you begin to address trauma and betrayal from you past, you may find that the insomnia improves). Your therapist, with you input and direction, can help you to prioritize which problem areas to target first.",

"There are never too many issues in living. In a way we take on too many issues at one time. Then we become over whelmed with ""anxiety and depression.""\'a0 A skillful, caring therapist will help you find a place to start and deal with one issue at a time. when this helps the other issues. Then the other issues become more manageable. I gain. confidence I can take on life better and, importantly , enjoy living life more. My best to you. Dr. Spencer",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"You can be helped. Many of the people I see have multiple issues. These issues are often linked so that helping one issue will positively help the other issues.",

"There are never too many issues in living. In a way we take on too many issues at one time. Then we become over whelmed with ""anxiety and depression.""\'a0 A skillful, caring therapist will help you find a place to start and deal with one issue at a time. when this helps the other issues. Then the other issues become more manageable. I gain. confidence I can take on life better and, importantly , enjoy living life more. My best to you. Dr. Spencer",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"The short answer is: absolutely not! The longer answer is that it might take some time to process all of the issues, and it may feel quite ""muddy"" in the issues for a lot longer than is tolerable (which is why counseling may have been postponed to begin with for you.) It's important to be realistic when entering counseling of any sort, and that the therapist be realistic with you about what you might be able to expect working with that person (I use the words ""might be able to expect"" because therapy experiences can vary.) But that not having counseling about trauma that you have experienced much earlier in your life can play a significant role in the process and how long that process could take to unpack all that may have been buried over time.It might also be helpful in counseling to work with the therapist on figuring out where to begin, but to also manage the feelings of being overwhelmed that may make it hard to continue to show up and do the work required, week in and week out. It isn't easy work trying to process past pain that you experienced, and so consistent practice of self-care, including leaning on support systems outside of therapy, is key.",

"There are never too many issues in living. In a way we take on too many issues at one time. Then we become over whelmed with ""anxiety and depression.""\'a0 A skillful, caring therapist will help you find a place to start and deal with one issue at a time. when this helps the other issues. Then the other issues become more manageable. I gain. confidence I can take on life better and, importantly , enjoy living life more. My best to you. Dr. Spencer",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"Usually people who struggle with depression also have symptoms of anxiety. These symptoms come about as a result of underlying causes. The obstacles you have been overcoming such as abuse, cancer and insomnia likely bring about similar feelings and emotions in you which affect your self-esteem. Counseling is meant to support people who have layers of difficulties. We see the difficulties as layers to an onion, peeling away the many layers.",

"There are never too many issues in living. In a way we take on too many issues at one time. Then we become over whelmed with ""anxiety and depression.""\'a0 A skillful, caring therapist will help you find a place to start and deal with one issue at a time. when this helps the other issues. Then the other issues become more manageable. I gain. confidence I can take on life better and, importantly , enjoy living life more. My best to you. Dr. Spencer",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"Often times when an individual begins the counseling process it is revealed that there is more than one thing going on. When we think about how much is wrong, it can be overwhelming and we may not know where to even start. Counseling can provide guidance to help you to begin working toward healing in a way that is most helpful for you to reach your goals.",

"There are never too many issues in living. In a way we take on too many issues at one time. Then we become over whelmed with ""anxiety and depression.""\'a0 A skillful, caring therapist will help you find a place to start and deal with one issue at a time. when this helps the other issues. Then the other issues become more manageable. I gain. confidence I can take on life better and, importantly , enjoy living life more. My best to you. Dr. Spencer",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never too many issues in living. In a way we take on too many issues at one time. Then we become over whelmed with ""anxiety and depression.""\'a0 A skillful, caring therapist will help you find a place to start and deal with one issue at a time. when this helps the other issues. Then the other issues become more manageable. I gain. confidence I can take on life better and, importantly , enjoy living life more. My best to you. Dr. Spencer",

"It is very common for\'a0people to have multiple issues that they want to (and need to) address in counseling.\'a0 I have had clients ask that same question and through more exploration, there is often an underlying fear that they\'a0 ""can't be helped"" or that they will ""be too much for their therapist."" I don't know if any of this rings true for you. But, most people have more than one problem in their lives and more often than not,\'a0 people have numerous significant stressors in their lives.\'a0 Let's face it, life can be complicated! Therapists are completely ready and equipped to handle all of the issues small or large that a client presents in session. Most therapists over the first couple of sessions will help you prioritize the issues you are facing so that you start addressing the issues that are causing you the most distress.\'a0 You can never have too many issues to address in counseling.\'a0 All of the issues you mention above can be successfully worked through in counseling.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never too many issues in living. In a way we take on too many issues at one time. Then we become over whelmed with ""anxiety and depression.""\'a0 A skillful, caring therapist will help you find a place to start and deal with one issue at a time. when this helps the other issues. Then the other issues become more manageable. I gain. confidence I can take on life better and, importantly , enjoy living life more. My best to you. Dr. Spencer",

"Absolutely not! When we have the courage to accept the challenge to address whatever is causing us pain, the solutions often generalize to many, if not all of our symptoms. I would suggest that unresolved trauma from sexual abuse is likely a primary contributing factor. However, it is important that you first build a trusting relationship with a therapist experienced in trauma treatment as this is an area of specialty that not all therapists are skilled in treating. Choosing one issue to work on, such as anxiety or depressive symptoms, and starting there will allow you the opportunity to get to know your therapist, learn coping skills for managing distressing symptoms, and establish emotional safety before jumping into trauma work.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never too many issues in living. In a way we take on too many issues at one time. Then we become over whelmed with ""anxiety and depression.""\'a0 A skillful, caring therapist will help you find a place to start and deal with one issue at a time. when this helps the other issues. Then the other issues become more manageable. I gain. confidence I can take on life better and, importantly , enjoy living life more. My best to you. Dr. Spencer",

"Hello there,No one has too many issues to address in counseling. Once you start counseling, your therapist will help you identify which issues to start working on first and which are causing you the most distress. Once you and your therapist prioritize your concerns, you can start to address each concern, starting with the one causing the most distress for you.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never too many issues in living. In a way we take on too many issues at one time. Then we become over whelmed with ""anxiety and depression.""\'a0 A skillful, caring therapist will help you find a place to start and deal with one issue at a time. when this helps the other issues. Then the other issues become more manageable. I gain. confidence I can take on life better and, importantly , enjoy living life more. My best to you. Dr. Spencer",

"It sounds like you are feeling pretty overwhelmed. But you are also a survivor and have the benefit of a long, stable marriage. You do not have too many issues to address in counseling. A good therapist will help you to partialize your goals into smaller objectives and focus in on what's most pressing for you to address first in treatment.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never too many issues in living. In a way we take on too many issues at one time. Then we become over whelmed with ""anxiety and depression.""\'a0 A skillful, caring therapist will help you find a place to start and deal with one issue at a time. when this helps the other issues. Then the other issues become more manageable. I gain. confidence I can take on life better and, importantly , enjoy living life more. My best to you. Dr. Spencer",

"Hello! You may have heard the saying that counseling is like peeling the layers of an onion. Whether a person comes to therapy with many issues on their heart and mind or whether he/she comes with something specific, one issue leads to another. Please don't feel as though you have too many issues. You are important and worthy. On the plus side, \'a0you are a breast cancer survivor and have a wonderful marriage! Seek the help that you deserve.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"You do not have too many issues to address in counseling.\'a0 And your perseverance will serve you well if you choose to engage in therapy.\'a0 The trauma and medical event you experienced topped off with chronic sleepless nights would lead to feelings of depression for many.\'a0 The emotional reaction you've had to these experiences sounds normal albeit troublesome and I would imagine intensely painful at times as well.\'a0 Therapy can help prioritize what is the most impactful issue you are grappling with.\'a0 I find in therapy that when the central issue is revealed, understood, processed, and understood again in its current context, many other areas of the person's internal experience improve.\'a0 It sounds as though something has prevented you from seeking help from a counselor in the past, and it sounds as though you are more seriously considering it now.\'a0 Therapy helps and it can help you when you're ready.",

"There are never too many issues in living. In a way we take on too many issues at one time. Then we become over whelmed with ""anxiety and depression.""\'a0 A skillful, caring therapist will help you find a place to start and deal with one issue at a time. when this helps the other issues. Then the other issues become more manageable. I gain. confidence I can take on life better and, importantly , enjoy living life more. My best to you. Dr. Spencer",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never too many issues in living. In a way we take on too many issues at one time. Then we become over whelmed with ""anxiety and depression.""\'a0 A skillful, caring therapist will help you find a place to start and deal with one issue at a time. when this helps the other issues. Then the other issues become more manageable. I gain. confidence I can take on life better and, importantly , enjoy living life more. My best to you. Dr. Spencer",

"Thank you for sharing your history. You do not have too many issues to address in counseling. It will help to prioritize what you would like to work on first in therapy. Your therapist will create a treatment plan with you, which can always be changed while working together. Therapy is a process in working towards your best life, and you deserve it.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never too many issues in living. In a way we take on too many issues at one time. Then we become over whelmed with ""anxiety and depression.""\'a0 A skillful, caring therapist will help you find a place to start and deal with one issue at a time. when this helps the other issues. Then the other issues become more manageable. I gain. confidence I can take on life better and, importantly , enjoy living life more. My best to you. Dr. Spencer",

"Not at all! Whatever issues you might have you can bring to the therapy room. Remember therapy is about YOU, not your therapist. You bring whatever you need to bring to the table. Keep in mind these issues are likely related. Remember you are a holistic being, more than just the sum of the parts. Just like any system, when you move something in one area, things start changing in other areas as well. Talk to your therapist to decide goals for counseling and establish priorities, and ENJOY THE RIDE! Growing, flourishing, and finally letting go of what hurts can be a beautiful and exciting process.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never too many issues in living. In a way we take on too many issues at one time. Then we become over whelmed with ""anxiety and depression.""\'a0 A skillful, caring therapist will help you find a place to start and deal with one issue at a time. when this helps the other issues. Then the other issues become more manageable. I gain. confidence I can take on life better and, importantly , enjoy living life more. My best to you. Dr. Spencer",

"You absolutely do not have ""too many issues"" for counseling. Your reaching out to ask this question shows you have a resilient spirit. Also, your happy marriage can be a support and strength to you as you embark on a counseling journey. I would recommend that you find a counselor who specializes in trauma, sexual trauma and/or EMDR (a type of therapy that is proven to have a strong impact on healing from trauma). Good luck!",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"I don't think you have too many issues for counseling.\'a0 If a client came to me for help with the same issues that you have listed here I would first want them to meet with their doctor to get a physical to rule out any biological causes to your depression, anxiety, and insomnia.\'a0 I would work with you on deciding which of these issues to tackle first.\'a0 I usually suggest starting with the issue that is easiest.\'a0 Reading through your symptoms I might choose anxiety to start with since you are in the early stages of it.\'a0 I like to give my client skills they can use right away, so I would focus on teaching you breathing exercises to manage the anxiety as well as cognitive restructuring so that when an anxious thought pops up you can talk yourself through it.\'a0 Once you felt that you had some control over the anxiety I'd start to work on some of your other concerns, but I would seek your input on what you felt like might be good to work on next.\'a0 My gut is that some of these issues would be resolved as you worked on others.\'a0 For example as you worked on your anxiety and began to process your trauma and as you began to work on self care and getting more sleep - your self esteem would probably improve.\'a0 I encourage you to meet with a therapist and ask them how they might be able to help you.\'a0 These are just some thoughts that came up for me on how I might help someone with the same or similar symptoms.",

"There are never too many issues in living. In a way we take on too many issues at one time. Then we become over whelmed with ""anxiety and depression.""\'a0 A skillful, caring therapist will help you find a place to start and deal with one issue at a time. when this helps the other issues. Then the other issues become more manageable. I gain. confidence I can take on life better and, importantly , enjoy living life more. My best to you. Dr. Spencer",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"The way it goes is that all your issues are connected. Once you work on one issue it will have a positive effect on all areas. Slowly each issue is addressed and actually less issues will need to be addressed directly since resolving one helps your overall wellness. So no, you do not have too many issues. Don\'92t give up. Get help now and see how your life can change for the better.",

"There are never too many issues in living. In a way we take on too many issues at one time. Then we become over whelmed with ""anxiety and depression.""\'a0 A skillful, caring therapist will help you find a place to start and deal with one issue at a time. when this helps the other issues. Then the other issues become more manageable. I gain. confidence I can take on life better and, importantly , enjoy living life more. My best to you. Dr. Spencer",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never too many issues in living. In a way we take on too many issues at one time. Then we become over whelmed with ""anxiety and depression.""\'a0 A skillful, caring therapist will help you find a place to start and deal with one issue at a time. when this helps the other issues. Then the other issues become more manageable. I gain. confidence I can take on life better and, importantly , enjoy living life more. My best to you. Dr. Spencer",

"I think this is a very common question that people who have never been to counseling before have. \'a0There is a lot of anxiety in going to counseling for the first time. \'a0This is normal. \'a0In answer to your \'a0question, the answer is an absolute NO! \'a0An important thing to remember about getting counseling is that it is a courageous first step towards hope and healing. \'a0Getting help is like training to run a marathon, it is not a sprint. \'a0You have shared a lot of issues that you are dealing with from your past, that are now negatively impacting your present, but I believe that in getting the right kind of help and support, none of them are impossible to overcome. \'a0Part of the therapeutic process is defining and prioritizing therapy goals. \'a0In collaboration with you, as a client, a therapist is there to help you with this process in determining what you would like to work on first. \'a0Not getting counseling, based on the history you have shared, has the potential to put you more at risk for mental and physical health issues. \'a0You are already seeing this happen as you begin to experience new symptoms, namely your anxiety. \'a0In therapy, you will gain understanding and insight, as well as learn skills and strategies to manage the symptoms you are experiencing.In conclusion, I would encourage you to reach out to a licensed counselor who has experience in treating trauma, grief/loss and will address shame. \'a0These are three areas that I have found that gets to \'a0the core issues that are contributing to your depression and anxiety. \'a0 I believe you can get the help you need to find hope and healing. \'a0Best of luck to you!",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"Hello, I'm so glad you decided to take the first step in opening a conversation first. Deciding to go to therapy can sometimes be difficult for some, but with the right therapist, healing is possible and obtainable, even with what you've described. To answer your question, no you do not have too many issues to go to counseling. \'a0You've been through a lot and have been strong and at times it's helpful to have someone else to help you through it.\'a0What I would say is to be sure and find a therapist who is experienced in sexual abuse and trauma overall. But you absolutely do not have too many issues for counseling. Please feel free to ask any other questions you may have regarding your situation and I hope you find the therapist you're looking for, there are many great ones out there. Many of the issues you're experiencing may be tied together from the trauma.\'a0Best Wishes.\'a0Laura Cassity, LMSW, LMAC",

"There are never too many issues in living. In a way we take on too many issues at one time. Then we become over whelmed with ""anxiety and depression.""\'a0 A skillful, caring therapist will help you find a place to start and deal with one issue at a time. when this helps the other issues. Then the other issues become more manageable. I gain. confidence I can take on life better and, importantly , enjoy living life more. My best to you. Dr. Spencer",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never too many issues in living. In a way we take on too many issues at one time. Then we become over whelmed with ""anxiety and depression.""\'a0 A skillful, caring therapist will help you find a place to start and deal with one issue at a time. when this helps the other issues. Then the other issues become more manageable. I gain. confidence I can take on life better and, importantly , enjoy living life more. My best to you. Dr. Spencer",

"Not at all my dear.\'a0Human beings are complex creatures, and in my opinion, our issues interconnect in a very nuanced web between our levels of being (for example, mind, body, and spirit). Everything you bring up affects all three. The truly beautiful thing about the human body is that when you begin to work on one, the others improve as well!I would encourage you to seek out a counselor who's style and approach speaks to you and start with whichever issue feels most pressing to you. A skilled therapist will flow with you at your own pace and make recommendations to other professionals (e.g., physicians, holistic practitioners, EMDR specialists for trauma etc) as needed to complement the psychotherapy work you're doing with him or her to help you find the total healing you seek.\'a0I wish you well on your journey!",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never too many issues in living. In a way we take on too many issues at one time. Then we become over whelmed with ""anxiety and depression.""\'a0 A skillful, caring therapist will help you find a place to start and deal with one issue at a time. when this helps the other issues. Then the other issues become more manageable. I gain. confidence I can take on life better and, importantly , enjoy living life more. My best to you. Dr. Spencer",

"Everyone has topics to discuss when they start therapy. \'a0 There is no correct number of topics.youSometimes people go to therapy for one specific area of their life. \'a0\'a0Not everyone has the time or interest to utilize therapy just when a significant topic arises in their life.Since you are one person, no matter how many or few topics you would like to address in therapy, all the topics relate to you.Possibly the result of your therapy will be more transformational than if you talked only on one topic. \'a0Lucky you, to be on the cusp of clearing and resolving many vulnerabilities at once. \'a0 You will feel brand new by the time you finish your therapy work!",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never ""too many issues"" to be addressed in therapy.\'a0 Most people come in with multiple issues they want to address.\'a0 The wonderful thing about therapy, is that often, as one or more significant issues begin to change and improve-\'a0 \'a0the lead naturally without much effort to improvements in the other areas.\'a0 (For example, as you begin to address trauma and betrayal from you past, you may find that the insomnia improves). Your therapist, with you input and direction, can help you to prioritize which problem areas to target first.",

"You can be helped. Many of the people I see have multiple issues. These issues are often linked so that helping one issue will positively help the other issues.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never ""too many issues"" to be addressed in therapy.\'a0 Most people come in with multiple issues they want to address.\'a0 The wonderful thing about therapy, is that often, as one or more significant issues begin to change and improve-\'a0 \'a0the lead naturally without much effort to improvements in the other areas.\'a0 (For example, as you begin to address trauma and betrayal from you past, you may find that the insomnia improves). Your therapist, with you input and direction, can help you to prioritize which problem areas to target first.",

"The short answer is: absolutely not! The longer answer is that it might take some time to process all of the issues, and it may feel quite ""muddy"" in the issues for a lot longer than is tolerable (which is why counseling may have been postponed to begin with for you.) It's important to be realistic when entering counseling of any sort, and that the therapist be realistic with you about what you might be able to expect working with that person (I use the words ""might be able to expect"" because therapy experiences can vary.) But that not having counseling about trauma that you have experienced much earlier in your life can play a significant role in the process and how long that process could take to unpack all that may have been buried over time.It might also be helpful in counseling to work with the therapist on figuring out where to begin, but to also manage the feelings of being overwhelmed that may make it hard to continue to show up and do the work required, week in and week out. It isn't easy work trying to process past pain that you experienced, and so consistent practice of self-care, including leaning on support systems outside of therapy, is key.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never ""too many issues"" to be addressed in therapy.\'a0 Most people come in with multiple issues they want to address.\'a0 The wonderful thing about therapy, is that often, as one or more significant issues begin to change and improve-\'a0 \'a0the lead naturally without much effort to improvements in the other areas.\'a0 (For example, as you begin to address trauma and betrayal from you past, you may find that the insomnia improves). Your therapist, with you input and direction, can help you to prioritize which problem areas to target first.",

"Usually people who struggle with depression also have symptoms of anxiety. These symptoms come about as a result of underlying causes. The obstacles you have been overcoming such as abuse, cancer and insomnia likely bring about similar feelings and emotions in you which affect your self-esteem. Counseling is meant to support people who have layers of difficulties. We see the difficulties as layers to an onion, peeling away the many layers.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never ""too many issues"" to be addressed in therapy.\'a0 Most people come in with multiple issues they want to address.\'a0 The wonderful thing about therapy, is that often, as one or more significant issues begin to change and improve-\'a0 \'a0the lead naturally without much effort to improvements in the other areas.\'a0 (For example, as you begin to address trauma and betrayal from you past, you may find that the insomnia improves). Your therapist, with you input and direction, can help you to prioritize which problem areas to target first.",

"Often times when an individual begins the counseling process it is revealed that there is more than one thing going on. When we think about how much is wrong, it can be overwhelming and we may not know where to even start. Counseling can provide guidance to help you to begin working toward healing in a way that is most helpful for you to reach your goals.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never ""too many issues"" to be addressed in therapy.\'a0 Most people come in with multiple issues they want to address.\'a0 The wonderful thing about therapy, is that often, as one or more significant issues begin to change and improve-\'a0 \'a0the lead naturally without much effort to improvements in the other areas.\'a0 (For example, as you begin to address trauma and betrayal from you past, you may find that the insomnia improves). Your therapist, with you input and direction, can help you to prioritize which problem areas to target first.",

"It is very common for\'a0people to have multiple issues that they want to (and need to) address in counseling.\'a0 I have had clients ask that same question and through more exploration, there is often an underlying fear that they\'a0 ""can't be helped"" or that they will ""be too much for their therapist."" I don't know if any of this rings true for you. But, most people have more than one problem in their lives and more often than not,\'a0 people have numerous significant stressors in their lives.\'a0 Let's face it, life can be complicated! Therapists are completely ready and equipped to handle all of the issues small or large that a client presents in session. Most therapists over the first couple of sessions will help you prioritize the issues you are facing so that you start addressing the issues that are causing you the most distress.\'a0 You can never have too many issues to address in counseling.\'a0 All of the issues you mention above can be successfully worked through in counseling.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never ""too many issues"" to be addressed in therapy.\'a0 Most people come in with multiple issues they want to address.\'a0 The wonderful thing about therapy, is that often, as one or more significant issues begin to change and improve-\'a0 \'a0the lead naturally without much effort to improvements in the other areas.\'a0 (For example, as you begin to address trauma and betrayal from you past, you may find that the insomnia improves). Your therapist, with you input and direction, can help you to prioritize which problem areas to target first.",

"Absolutely not! When we have the courage to accept the challenge to address whatever is causing us pain, the solutions often generalize to many, if not all of our symptoms. I would suggest that unresolved trauma from sexual abuse is likely a primary contributing factor. However, it is important that you first build a trusting relationship with a therapist experienced in trauma treatment as this is an area of specialty that not all therapists are skilled in treating. Choosing one issue to work on, such as anxiety or depressive symptoms, and starting there will allow you the opportunity to get to know your therapist, learn coping skills for managing distressing symptoms, and establish emotional safety before jumping into trauma work.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never ""too many issues"" to be addressed in therapy.\'a0 Most people come in with multiple issues they want to address.\'a0 The wonderful thing about therapy, is that often, as one or more significant issues begin to change and improve-\'a0 \'a0the lead naturally without much effort to improvements in the other areas.\'a0 (For example, as you begin to address trauma and betrayal from you past, you may find that the insomnia improves). Your therapist, with you input and direction, can help you to prioritize which problem areas to target first.",

"Hello there,No one has too many issues to address in counseling. Once you start counseling, your therapist will help you identify which issues to start working on first and which are causing you the most distress. Once you and your therapist prioritize your concerns, you can start to address each concern, starting with the one causing the most distress for you.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never ""too many issues"" to be addressed in therapy.\'a0 Most people come in with multiple issues they want to address.\'a0 The wonderful thing about therapy, is that often, as one or more significant issues begin to change and improve-\'a0 \'a0the lead naturally without much effort to improvements in the other areas.\'a0 (For example, as you begin to address trauma and betrayal from you past, you may find that the insomnia improves). Your therapist, with you input and direction, can help you to prioritize which problem areas to target first.",

"It sounds like you are feeling pretty overwhelmed. But you are also a survivor and have the benefit of a long, stable marriage. You do not have too many issues to address in counseling. A good therapist will help you to partialize your goals into smaller objectives and focus in on what's most pressing for you to address first in treatment.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never ""too many issues"" to be addressed in therapy.\'a0 Most people come in with multiple issues they want to address.\'a0 The wonderful thing about therapy, is that often, as one or more significant issues begin to change and improve-\'a0 \'a0the lead naturally without much effort to improvements in the other areas.\'a0 (For example, as you begin to address trauma and betrayal from you past, you may find that the insomnia improves). Your therapist, with you input and direction, can help you to prioritize which problem areas to target first.",

"Hello! You may have heard the saying that counseling is like peeling the layers of an onion. Whether a person comes to therapy with many issues on their heart and mind or whether he/she comes with something specific, one issue leads to another. Please don't feel as though you have too many issues. You are important and worthy. On the plus side, \'a0you are a breast cancer survivor and have a wonderful marriage! Seek the help that you deserve.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never ""too many issues"" to be addressed in therapy.\'a0 Most people come in with multiple issues they want to address.\'a0 The wonderful thing about therapy, is that often, as one or more significant issues begin to change and improve-\'a0 \'a0the lead naturally without much effort to improvements in the other areas.\'a0 (For example, as you begin to address trauma and betrayal from you past, you may find that the insomnia improves). Your therapist, with you input and direction, can help you to prioritize which problem areas to target first.",

"You do not have too many issues to address in counseling.\'a0 And your perseverance will serve you well if you choose to engage in therapy.\'a0 The trauma and medical event you experienced topped off with chronic sleepless nights would lead to feelings of depression for many.\'a0 The emotional reaction you've had to these experiences sounds normal albeit troublesome and I would imagine intensely painful at times as well.\'a0 Therapy can help prioritize what is the most impactful issue you are grappling with.\'a0 I find in therapy that when the central issue is revealed, understood, processed, and understood again in its current context, many other areas of the person's internal experience improve.\'a0 It sounds as though something has prevented you from seeking help from a counselor in the past, and it sounds as though you are more seriously considering it now.\'a0 Therapy helps and it can help you when you're ready.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never ""too many issues"" to be addressed in therapy.\'a0 Most people come in with multiple issues they want to address.\'a0 The wonderful thing about therapy, is that often, as one or more significant issues begin to change and improve-\'a0 \'a0the lead naturally without much effort to improvements in the other areas.\'a0 (For example, as you begin to address trauma and betrayal from you past, you may find that the insomnia improves). Your therapist, with you input and direction, can help you to prioritize which problem areas to target first.",

"Thank you for sharing your history. You do not have too many issues to address in counseling. It will help to prioritize what you would like to work on first in therapy. Your therapist will create a treatment plan with you, which can always be changed while working together. Therapy is a process in working towards your best life, and you deserve it.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never ""too many issues"" to be addressed in therapy.\'a0 Most people come in with multiple issues they want to address.\'a0 The wonderful thing about therapy, is that often, as one or more significant issues begin to change and improve-\'a0 \'a0the lead naturally without much effort to improvements in the other areas.\'a0 (For example, as you begin to address trauma and betrayal from you past, you may find that the insomnia improves). Your therapist, with you input and direction, can help you to prioritize which problem areas to target first.",

"Not at all! Whatever issues you might have you can bring to the therapy room. Remember therapy is about YOU, not your therapist. You bring whatever you need to bring to the table. Keep in mind these issues are likely related. Remember you are a holistic being, more than just the sum of the parts. Just like any system, when you move something in one area, things start changing in other areas as well. Talk to your therapist to decide goals for counseling and establish priorities, and ENJOY THE RIDE! Growing, flourishing, and finally letting go of what hurts can be a beautiful and exciting process.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never ""too many issues"" to be addressed in therapy.\'a0 Most people come in with multiple issues they want to address.\'a0 The wonderful thing about therapy, is that often, as one or more significant issues begin to change and improve-\'a0 \'a0the lead naturally without much effort to improvements in the other areas.\'a0 (For example, as you begin to address trauma and betrayal from you past, you may find that the insomnia improves). Your therapist, with you input and direction, can help you to prioritize which problem areas to target first.",

"You absolutely do not have ""too many issues"" for counseling. Your reaching out to ask this question shows you have a resilient spirit. Also, your happy marriage can be a support and strength to you as you embark on a counseling journey. I would recommend that you find a counselor who specializes in trauma, sexual trauma and/or EMDR (a type of therapy that is proven to have a strong impact on healing from trauma). Good luck!",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never ""too many issues"" to be addressed in therapy.\'a0 Most people come in with multiple issues they want to address.\'a0 The wonderful thing about therapy, is that often, as one or more significant issues begin to change and improve-\'a0 \'a0the lead naturally without much effort to improvements in the other areas.\'a0 (For example, as you begin to address trauma and betrayal from you past, you may find that the insomnia improves). Your therapist, with you input and direction, can help you to prioritize which problem areas to target first.",

"I don't think you have too many issues for counseling.\'a0 If a client came to me for help with the same issues that you have listed here I would first want them to meet with their doctor to get a physical to rule out any biological causes to your depression, anxiety, and insomnia.\'a0 I would work with you on deciding which of these issues to tackle first.\'a0 I usually suggest starting with the issue that is easiest.\'a0 Reading through your symptoms I might choose anxiety to start with since you are in the early stages of it.\'a0 I like to give my client skills they can use right away, so I would focus on teaching you breathing exercises to manage the anxiety as well as cognitive restructuring so that when an anxious thought pops up you can talk yourself through it.\'a0 Once you felt that you had some control over the anxiety I'd start to work on some of your other concerns, but I would seek your input on what you felt like might be good to work on next.\'a0 My gut is that some of these issues would be resolved as you worked on others.\'a0 For example as you worked on your anxiety and began to process your trauma and as you began to work on self care and getting more sleep - your self esteem would probably improve.\'a0 I encourage you to meet with a therapist and ask them how they might be able to help you.\'a0 These are just some thoughts that came up for me on how I might help someone with the same or similar symptoms.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never ""too many issues"" to be addressed in therapy.\'a0 Most people come in with multiple issues they want to address.\'a0 The wonderful thing about therapy, is that often, as one or more significant issues begin to change and improve-\'a0 \'a0the lead naturally without much effort to improvements in the other areas.\'a0 (For example, as you begin to address trauma and betrayal from you past, you may find that the insomnia improves). Your therapist, with you input and direction, can help you to prioritize which problem areas to target first.",

"The way it goes is that all your issues are connected. Once you work on one issue it will have a positive effect on all areas. Slowly each issue is addressed and actually less issues will need to be addressed directly since resolving one helps your overall wellness. So no, you do not have too many issues. Don\'92t give up. Get help now and see how your life can change for the better.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never ""too many issues"" to be addressed in therapy.\'a0 Most people come in with multiple issues they want to address.\'a0 The wonderful thing about therapy, is that often, as one or more significant issues begin to change and improve-\'a0 \'a0the lead naturally without much effort to improvements in the other areas.\'a0 (For example, as you begin to address trauma and betrayal from you past, you may find that the insomnia improves). Your therapist, with you input and direction, can help you to prioritize which problem areas to target first.",

"I think this is a very common question that people who have never been to counseling before have. \'a0There is a lot of anxiety in going to counseling for the first time. \'a0This is normal. \'a0In answer to your \'a0question, the answer is an absolute NO! \'a0An important thing to remember about getting counseling is that it is a courageous first step towards hope and healing. \'a0Getting help is like training to run a marathon, it is not a sprint. \'a0You have shared a lot of issues that you are dealing with from your past, that are now negatively impacting your present, but I believe that in getting the right kind of help and support, none of them are impossible to overcome. \'a0Part of the therapeutic process is defining and prioritizing therapy goals. \'a0In collaboration with you, as a client, a therapist is there to help you with this process in determining what you would like to work on first. \'a0Not getting counseling, based on the history you have shared, has the potential to put you more at risk for mental and physical health issues. \'a0You are already seeing this happen as you begin to experience new symptoms, namely your anxiety. \'a0In therapy, you will gain understanding and insight, as well as learn skills and strategies to manage the symptoms you are experiencing.In conclusion, I would encourage you to reach out to a licensed counselor who has experience in treating trauma, grief/loss and will address shame. \'a0These are three areas that I have found that gets to \'a0the core issues that are contributing to your depression and anxiety. \'a0 I believe you can get the help you need to find hope and healing. \'a0Best of luck to you!",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never ""too many issues"" to be addressed in therapy.\'a0 Most people come in with multiple issues they want to address.\'a0 The wonderful thing about therapy, is that often, as one or more significant issues begin to change and improve-\'a0 \'a0the lead naturally without much effort to improvements in the other areas.\'a0 (For example, as you begin to address trauma and betrayal from you past, you may find that the insomnia improves). Your therapist, with you input and direction, can help you to prioritize which problem areas to target first.",

"Hello, I'm so glad you decided to take the first step in opening a conversation first. Deciding to go to therapy can sometimes be difficult for some, but with the right therapist, healing is possible and obtainable, even with what you've described. To answer your question, no you do not have too many issues to go to counseling. \'a0You've been through a lot and have been strong and at times it's helpful to have someone else to help you through it.\'a0What I would say is to be sure and find a therapist who is experienced in sexual abuse and trauma overall. But you absolutely do not have too many issues for counseling. Please feel free to ask any other questions you may have regarding your situation and I hope you find the therapist you're looking for, there are many great ones out there. Many of the issues you're experiencing may be tied together from the trauma.\'a0Best Wishes.\'a0Laura Cassity, LMSW, LMAC",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never ""too many issues"" to be addressed in therapy.\'a0 Most people come in with multiple issues they want to address.\'a0 The wonderful thing about therapy, is that often, as one or more significant issues begin to change and improve-\'a0 \'a0the lead naturally without much effort to improvements in the other areas.\'a0 (For example, as you begin to address trauma and betrayal from you past, you may find that the insomnia improves). Your therapist, with you input and direction, can help you to prioritize which problem areas to target first.",

"Not at all my dear.\'a0Human beings are complex creatures, and in my opinion, our issues interconnect in a very nuanced web between our levels of being (for example, mind, body, and spirit). Everything you bring up affects all three. The truly beautiful thing about the human body is that when you begin to work on one, the others improve as well!I would encourage you to seek out a counselor who's style and approach speaks to you and start with whichever issue feels most pressing to you. A skilled therapist will flow with you at your own pace and make recommendations to other professionals (e.g., physicians, holistic practitioners, EMDR specialists for trauma etc) as needed to complement the psychotherapy work you're doing with him or her to help you find the total healing you seek.\'a0I wish you well on your journey!",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"There are never ""too many issues"" to be addressed in therapy.\'a0 Most people come in with multiple issues they want to address.\'a0 The wonderful thing about therapy, is that often, as one or more significant issues begin to change and improve-\'a0 \'a0the lead naturally without much effort to improvements in the other areas.\'a0 (For example, as you begin to address trauma and betrayal from you past, you may find that the insomnia improves). Your therapist, with you input and direction, can help you to prioritize which problem areas to target first.",

"Everyone has topics to discuss when they start therapy. \'a0 There is no correct number of topics.youSometimes people go to therapy for one specific area of their life. \'a0\'a0Not everyone has the time or interest to utilize therapy just when a significant topic arises in their life.Since you are one person, no matter how many or few topics you would like to address in therapy, all the topics relate to you.Possibly the result of your therapy will be more transformational than if you talked only on one topic. \'a0Lucky you, to be on the cusp of clearing and resolving many vulnerabilities at once. \'a0 You will feel brand new by the time you finish your therapy work!",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"The short answer is: absolutely not! The longer answer is that it might take some time to process all of the issues, and it may feel quite ""muddy"" in the issues for a lot longer than is tolerable (which is why counseling may have been postponed to begin with for you.) It's important to be realistic when entering counseling of any sort, and that the therapist be realistic with you about what you might be able to expect working with that person (I use the words ""might be able to expect"" because therapy experiences can vary.) But that not having counseling about trauma that you have experienced much earlier in your life can play a significant role in the process and how long that process could take to unpack all that may have been buried over time.It might also be helpful in counseling to work with the therapist on figuring out where to begin, but to also manage the feelings of being overwhelmed that may make it hard to continue to show up and do the work required, week in and week out. It isn't easy work trying to process past pain that you experienced, and so consistent practice of self-care, including leaning on support systems outside of therapy, is key.",

"You can be helped. Many of the people I see have multiple issues. These issues are often linked so that helping one issue will positively help the other issues.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"Usually people who struggle with depression also have symptoms of anxiety. These symptoms come about as a result of underlying causes. The obstacles you have been overcoming such as abuse, cancer and insomnia likely bring about similar feelings and emotions in you which affect your self-esteem. Counseling is meant to support people who have layers of difficulties. We see the difficulties as layers to an onion, peeling away the many layers.",

"You can be helped. Many of the people I see have multiple issues. These issues are often linked so that helping one issue will positively help the other issues.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"Often times when an individual begins the counseling process it is revealed that there is more than one thing going on. When we think about how much is wrong, it can be overwhelming and we may not know where to even start. Counseling can provide guidance to help you to begin working toward healing in a way that is most helpful for you to reach your goals.",

"You can be helped. Many of the people I see have multiple issues. These issues are often linked so that helping one issue will positively help the other issues.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"You can be helped. Many of the people I see have multiple issues. These issues are often linked so that helping one issue will positively help the other issues.",

"It is very common for\'a0people to have multiple issues that they want to (and need to) address in counseling.\'a0 I have had clients ask that same question and through more exploration, there is often an underlying fear that they\'a0 ""can't be helped"" or that they will ""be too much for their therapist."" I don't know if any of this rings true for you. But, most people have more than one problem in their lives and more often than not,\'a0 people have numerous significant stressors in their lives.\'a0 Let's face it, life can be complicated! Therapists are completely ready and equipped to handle all of the issues small or large that a client presents in session. Most therapists over the first couple of sessions will help you prioritize the issues you are facing so that you start addressing the issues that are causing you the most distress.\'a0 You can never have too many issues to address in counseling.\'a0 All of the issues you mention above can be successfully worked through in counseling.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"You can be helped. Many of the people I see have multiple issues. These issues are often linked so that helping one issue will positively help the other issues.",

"Absolutely not! When we have the courage to accept the challenge to address whatever is causing us pain, the solutions often generalize to many, if not all of our symptoms. I would suggest that unresolved trauma from sexual abuse is likely a primary contributing factor. However, it is important that you first build a trusting relationship with a therapist experienced in trauma treatment as this is an area of specialty that not all therapists are skilled in treating. Choosing one issue to work on, such as anxiety or depressive symptoms, and starting there will allow you the opportunity to get to know your therapist, learn coping skills for managing distressing symptoms, and establish emotional safety before jumping into trauma work.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"You can be helped. Many of the people I see have multiple issues. These issues are often linked so that helping one issue will positively help the other issues.",

"Hello there,No one has too many issues to address in counseling. Once you start counseling, your therapist will help you identify which issues to start working on first and which are causing you the most distress. Once you and your therapist prioritize your concerns, you can start to address each concern, starting with the one causing the most distress for you.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"You can be helped. Many of the people I see have multiple issues. These issues are often linked so that helping one issue will positively help the other issues.",

"It sounds like you are feeling pretty overwhelmed. But you are also a survivor and have the benefit of a long, stable marriage. You do not have too many issues to address in counseling. A good therapist will help you to partialize your goals into smaller objectives and focus in on what's most pressing for you to address first in treatment.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"You can be helped. Many of the people I see have multiple issues. These issues are often linked so that helping one issue will positively help the other issues.",

"Hello! You may have heard the saying that counseling is like peeling the layers of an onion. Whether a person comes to therapy with many issues on their heart and mind or whether he/she comes with something specific, one issue leads to another. Please don't feel as though you have too many issues. You are important and worthy. On the plus side, \'a0you are a breast cancer survivor and have a wonderful marriage! Seek the help that you deserve.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"You can be helped. Many of the people I see have multiple issues. These issues are often linked so that helping one issue will positively help the other issues.",

"You do not have too many issues to address in counseling.\'a0 And your perseverance will serve you well if you choose to engage in therapy.\'a0 The trauma and medical event you experienced topped off with chronic sleepless nights would lead to feelings of depression for many.\'a0 The emotional reaction you've had to these experiences sounds normal albeit troublesome and I would imagine intensely painful at times as well.\'a0 Therapy can help prioritize what is the most impactful issue you are grappling with.\'a0 I find in therapy that when the central issue is revealed, understood, processed, and understood again in its current context, many other areas of the person's internal experience improve.\'a0 It sounds as though something has prevented you from seeking help from a counselor in the past, and it sounds as though you are more seriously considering it now.\'a0 Therapy helps and it can help you when you're ready.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"You can be helped. Many of the people I see have multiple issues. These issues are often linked so that helping one issue will positively help the other issues.",

"Thank you for sharing your history. You do not have too many issues to address in counseling. It will help to prioritize what you would like to work on first in therapy. Your therapist will create a treatment plan with you, which can always be changed while working together. Therapy is a process in working towards your best life, and you deserve it.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"You can be helped. Many of the people I see have multiple issues. These issues are often linked so that helping one issue will positively help the other issues.",

"Not at all! Whatever issues you might have you can bring to the therapy room. Remember therapy is about YOU, not your therapist. You bring whatever you need to bring to the table. Keep in mind these issues are likely related. Remember you are a holistic being, more than just the sum of the parts. Just like any system, when you move something in one area, things start changing in other areas as well. Talk to your therapist to decide goals for counseling and establish priorities, and ENJOY THE RIDE! Growing, flourishing, and finally letting go of what hurts can be a beautiful and exciting process.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"You can be helped. Many of the people I see have multiple issues. These issues are often linked so that helping one issue will positively help the other issues.",

"You absolutely do not have ""too many issues"" for counseling. Your reaching out to ask this question shows you have a resilient spirit. Also, your happy marriage can be a support and strength to you as you embark on a counseling journey. I would recommend that you find a counselor who specializes in trauma, sexual trauma and/or EMDR (a type of therapy that is proven to have a strong impact on healing from trauma). Good luck!",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"You can be helped. Many of the people I see have multiple issues. These issues are often linked so that helping one issue will positively help the other issues.",

"I don't think you have too many issues for counseling.\'a0 If a client came to me for help with the same issues that you have listed here I would first want them to meet with their doctor to get a physical to rule out any biological causes to your depression, anxiety, and insomnia.\'a0 I would work with you on deciding which of these issues to tackle first.\'a0 I usually suggest starting with the issue that is easiest.\'a0 Reading through your symptoms I might choose anxiety to start with since you are in the early stages of it.\'a0 I like to give my client skills they can use right away, so I would focus on teaching you breathing exercises to manage the anxiety as well as cognitive restructuring so that when an anxious thought pops up you can talk yourself through it.\'a0 Once you felt that you had some control over the anxiety I'd start to work on some of your other concerns, but I would seek your input on what you felt like might be good to work on next.\'a0 My gut is that some of these issues would be resolved as you worked on others.\'a0 For example as you worked on your anxiety and began to process your trauma and as you began to work on self care and getting more sleep - your self esteem would probably improve.\'a0 I encourage you to meet with a therapist and ask them how they might be able to help you.\'a0 These are just some thoughts that came up for me on how I might help someone with the same or similar symptoms.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"You can be helped. Many of the people I see have multiple issues. These issues are often linked so that helping one issue will positively help the other issues.",

"The way it goes is that all your issues are connected. Once you work on one issue it will have a positive effect on all areas. Slowly each issue is addressed and actually less issues will need to be addressed directly since resolving one helps your overall wellness. So no, you do not have too many issues. Don\'92t give up. Get help now and see how your life can change for the better.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"You can be helped. Many of the people I see have multiple issues. These issues are often linked so that helping one issue will positively help the other issues.",

"I think this is a very common question that people who have never been to counseling before have. \'a0There is a lot of anxiety in going to counseling for the first time. \'a0This is normal. \'a0In answer to your \'a0question, the answer is an absolute NO! \'a0An important thing to remember about getting counseling is that it is a courageous first step towards hope and healing. \'a0Getting help is like training to run a marathon, it is not a sprint. \'a0You have shared a lot of issues that you are dealing with from your past, that are now negatively impacting your present, but I believe that in getting the right kind of help and support, none of them are impossible to overcome. \'a0Part of the therapeutic process is defining and prioritizing therapy goals. \'a0In collaboration with you, as a client, a therapist is there to help you with this process in determining what you would like to work on first. \'a0Not getting counseling, based on the history you have shared, has the potential to put you more at risk for mental and physical health issues. \'a0You are already seeing this happen as you begin to experience new symptoms, namely your anxiety. \'a0In therapy, you will gain understanding and insight, as well as learn skills and strategies to manage the symptoms you are experiencing.In conclusion, I would encourage you to reach out to a licensed counselor who has experience in treating trauma, grief/loss and will address shame. \'a0These are three areas that I have found that gets to \'a0the core issues that are contributing to your depression and anxiety. \'a0 I believe you can get the help you need to find hope and healing. \'a0Best of luck to you!",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"You can be helped. Many of the people I see have multiple issues. These issues are often linked so that helping one issue will positively help the other issues.",

"Hello, I'm so glad you decided to take the first step in opening a conversation first. Deciding to go to therapy can sometimes be difficult for some, but with the right therapist, healing is possible and obtainable, even with what you've described. To answer your question, no you do not have too many issues to go to counseling. \'a0You've been through a lot and have been strong and at times it's helpful to have someone else to help you through it.\'a0What I would say is to be sure and find a therapist who is experienced in sexual abuse and trauma overall. But you absolutely do not have too many issues for counseling. Please feel free to ask any other questions you may have regarding your situation and I hope you find the therapist you're looking for, there are many great ones out there. Many of the issues you're experiencing may be tied together from the trauma.\'a0Best Wishes.\'a0Laura Cassity, LMSW, LMAC",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"You can be helped. Many of the people I see have multiple issues. These issues are often linked so that helping one issue will positively help the other issues.",

"Not at all my dear.\'a0Human beings are complex creatures, and in my opinion, our issues interconnect in a very nuanced web between our levels of being (for example, mind, body, and spirit). Everything you bring up affects all three. The truly beautiful thing about the human body is that when you begin to work on one, the others improve as well!I would encourage you to seek out a counselor who's style and approach speaks to you and start with whichever issue feels most pressing to you. A skilled therapist will flow with you at your own pace and make recommendations to other professionals (e.g., physicians, holistic practitioners, EMDR specialists for trauma etc) as needed to complement the psychotherapy work you're doing with him or her to help you find the total healing you seek.\'a0I wish you well on your journey!",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"You can be helped. Many of the people I see have multiple issues. These issues are often linked so that helping one issue will positively help the other issues.",

"Everyone has topics to discuss when they start therapy. \'a0 There is no correct number of topics.youSometimes people go to therapy for one specific area of their life. \'a0\'a0Not everyone has the time or interest to utilize therapy just when a significant topic arises in their life.Since you are one person, no matter how many or few topics you would like to address in therapy, all the topics relate to you.Possibly the result of your therapy will be more transformational than if you talked only on one topic. \'a0Lucky you, to be on the cusp of clearing and resolving many vulnerabilities at once. \'a0 You will feel brand new by the time you finish your therapy work!",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"Usually people who struggle with depression also have symptoms of anxiety. These symptoms come about as a result of underlying causes. The obstacles you have been overcoming such as abuse, cancer and insomnia likely bring about similar feelings and emotions in you which affect your self-esteem. Counseling is meant to support people who have layers of difficulties. We see the difficulties as layers to an onion, peeling away the many layers.",

"The short answer is: absolutely not! The longer answer is that it might take some time to process all of the issues, and it may feel quite ""muddy"" in the issues for a lot longer than is tolerable (which is why counseling may have been postponed to begin with for you.) It's important to be realistic when entering counseling of any sort, and that the therapist be realistic with you about what you might be able to expect working with that person (I use the words ""might be able to expect"" because therapy experiences can vary.) But that not having counseling about trauma that you have experienced much earlier in your life can play a significant role in the process and how long that process could take to unpack all that may have been buried over time.It might also be helpful in counseling to work with the therapist on figuring out where to begin, but to also manage the feelings of being overwhelmed that may make it hard to continue to show up and do the work required, week in and week out. It isn't easy work trying to process past pain that you experienced, and so consistent practice of self-care, including leaning on support systems outside of therapy, is key.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"Often times when an individual begins the counseling process it is revealed that there is more than one thing going on. When we think about how much is wrong, it can be overwhelming and we may not know where to even start. Counseling can provide guidance to help you to begin working toward healing in a way that is most helpful for you to reach your goals.",

"The short answer is: absolutely not! The longer answer is that it might take some time to process all of the issues, and it may feel quite ""muddy"" in the issues for a lot longer than is tolerable (which is why counseling may have been postponed to begin with for you.) It's important to be realistic when entering counseling of any sort, and that the therapist be realistic with you about what you might be able to expect working with that person (I use the words ""might be able to expect"" because therapy experiences can vary.) But that not having counseling about trauma that you have experienced much earlier in your life can play a significant role in the process and how long that process could take to unpack all that may have been buried over time.It might also be helpful in counseling to work with the therapist on figuring out where to begin, but to also manage the feelings of being overwhelmed that may make it hard to continue to show up and do the work required, week in and week out. It isn't easy work trying to process past pain that you experienced, and so consistent practice of self-care, including leaning on support systems outside of therapy, is key.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"The short answer is: absolutely not! The longer answer is that it might take some time to process all of the issues, and it may feel quite ""muddy"" in the issues for a lot longer than is tolerable (which is why counseling may have been postponed to begin with for you.) It's important to be realistic when entering counseling of any sort, and that the therapist be realistic with you about what you might be able to expect working with that person (I use the words ""might be able to expect"" because therapy experiences can vary.) But that not having counseling about trauma that you have experienced much earlier in your life can play a significant role in the process and how long that process could take to unpack all that may have been buried over time.It might also be helpful in counseling to work with the therapist on figuring out where to begin, but to also manage the feelings of being overwhelmed that may make it hard to continue to show up and do the work required, week in and week out. It isn't easy work trying to process past pain that you experienced, and so consistent practice of self-care, including leaning on support systems outside of therapy, is key.",

"It is very common for\'a0people to have multiple issues that they want to (and need to) address in counseling.\'a0 I have had clients ask that same question and through more exploration, there is often an underlying fear that they\'a0 ""can't be helped"" or that they will ""be too much for their therapist."" I don't know if any of this rings true for you. But, most people have more than one problem in their lives and more often than not,\'a0 people have numerous significant stressors in their lives.\'a0 Let's face it, life can be complicated! Therapists are completely ready and equipped to handle all of the issues small or large that a client presents in session. Most therapists over the first couple of sessions will help you prioritize the issues you are facing so that you start addressing the issues that are causing you the most distress.\'a0 You can never have too many issues to address in counseling.\'a0 All of the issues you mention above can be successfully worked through in counseling.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"The short answer is: absolutely not! The longer answer is that it might take some time to process all of the issues, and it may feel quite ""muddy"" in the issues for a lot longer than is tolerable (which is why counseling may have been postponed to begin with for you.) It's important to be realistic when entering counseling of any sort, and that the therapist be realistic with you about what you might be able to expect working with that person (I use the words ""might be able to expect"" because therapy experiences can vary.) But that not having counseling about trauma that you have experienced much earlier in your life can play a significant role in the process and how long that process could take to unpack all that may have been buried over time.It might also be helpful in counseling to work with the therapist on figuring out where to begin, but to also manage the feelings of being overwhelmed that may make it hard to continue to show up and do the work required, week in and week out. It isn't easy work trying to process past pain that you experienced, and so consistent practice of self-care, including leaning on support systems outside of therapy, is key.",

"Absolutely not! When we have the courage to accept the challenge to address whatever is causing us pain, the solutions often generalize to many, if not all of our symptoms. I would suggest that unresolved trauma from sexual abuse is likely a primary contributing factor. However, it is important that you first build a trusting relationship with a therapist experienced in trauma treatment as this is an area of specialty that not all therapists are skilled in treating. Choosing one issue to work on, such as anxiety or depressive symptoms, and starting there will allow you the opportunity to get to know your therapist, learn coping skills for managing distressing symptoms, and establish emotional safety before jumping into trauma work.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"The short answer is: absolutely not! The longer answer is that it might take some time to process all of the issues, and it may feel quite ""muddy"" in the issues for a lot longer than is tolerable (which is why counseling may have been postponed to begin with for you.) It's important to be realistic when entering counseling of any sort, and that the therapist be realistic with you about what you might be able to expect working with that person (I use the words ""might be able to expect"" because therapy experiences can vary.) But that not having counseling about trauma that you have experienced much earlier in your life can play a significant role in the process and how long that process could take to unpack all that may have been buried over time.It might also be helpful in counseling to work with the therapist on figuring out where to begin, but to also manage the feelings of being overwhelmed that may make it hard to continue to show up and do the work required, week in and week out. It isn't easy work trying to process past pain that you experienced, and so consistent practice of self-care, including leaning on support systems outside of therapy, is key.",

"Hello there,No one has too many issues to address in counseling. Once you start counseling, your therapist will help you identify which issues to start working on first and which are causing you the most distress. Once you and your therapist prioritize your concerns, you can start to address each concern, starting with the one causing the most distress for you.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"The short answer is: absolutely not! The longer answer is that it might take some time to process all of the issues, and it may feel quite ""muddy"" in the issues for a lot longer than is tolerable (which is why counseling may have been postponed to begin with for you.) It's important to be realistic when entering counseling of any sort, and that the therapist be realistic with you about what you might be able to expect working with that person (I use the words ""might be able to expect"" because therapy experiences can vary.) But that not having counseling about trauma that you have experienced much earlier in your life can play a significant role in the process and how long that process could take to unpack all that may have been buried over time.It might also be helpful in counseling to work with the therapist on figuring out where to begin, but to also manage the feelings of being overwhelmed that may make it hard to continue to show up and do the work required, week in and week out. It isn't easy work trying to process past pain that you experienced, and so consistent practice of self-care, including leaning on support systems outside of therapy, is key.",

"It sounds like you are feeling pretty overwhelmed. But you are also a survivor and have the benefit of a long, stable marriage. You do not have too many issues to address in counseling. A good therapist will help you to partialize your goals into smaller objectives and focus in on what's most pressing for you to address first in treatment.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"The short answer is: absolutely not! The longer answer is that it might take some time to process all of the issues, and it may feel quite ""muddy"" in the issues for a lot longer than is tolerable (which is why counseling may have been postponed to begin with for you.) It's important to be realistic when entering counseling of any sort, and that the therapist be realistic with you about what you might be able to expect working with that person (I use the words ""might be able to expect"" because therapy experiences can vary.) But that not having counseling about trauma that you have experienced much earlier in your life can play a significant role in the process and how long that process could take to unpack all that may have been buried over time.It might also be helpful in counseling to work with the therapist on figuring out where to begin, but to also manage the feelings of being overwhelmed that may make it hard to continue to show up and do the work required, week in and week out. It isn't easy work trying to process past pain that you experienced, and so consistent practice of self-care, including leaning on support systems outside of therapy, is key.",

"Hello! You may have heard the saying that counseling is like peeling the layers of an onion. Whether a person comes to therapy with many issues on their heart and mind or whether he/she comes with something specific, one issue leads to another. Please don't feel as though you have too many issues. You are important and worthy. On the plus side, \'a0you are a breast cancer survivor and have a wonderful marriage! Seek the help that you deserve.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"The short answer is: absolutely not! The longer answer is that it might take some time to process all of the issues, and it may feel quite ""muddy"" in the issues for a lot longer than is tolerable (which is why counseling may have been postponed to begin with for you.) It's important to be realistic when entering counseling of any sort, and that the therapist be realistic with you about what you might be able to expect working with that person (I use the words ""might be able to expect"" because therapy experiences can vary.) But that not having counseling about trauma that you have experienced much earlier in your life can play a significant role in the process and how long that process could take to unpack all that may have been buried over time.It might also be helpful in counseling to work with the therapist on figuring out where to begin, but to also manage the feelings of being overwhelmed that may make it hard to continue to show up and do the work required, week in and week out. It isn't easy work trying to process past pain that you experienced, and so consistent practice of self-care, including leaning on support systems outside of therapy, is key.",

"You do not have too many issues to address in counseling.\'a0 And your perseverance will serve you well if you choose to engage in therapy.\'a0 The trauma and medical event you experienced topped off with chronic sleepless nights would lead to feelings of depression for many.\'a0 The emotional reaction you've had to these experiences sounds normal albeit troublesome and I would imagine intensely painful at times as well.\'a0 Therapy can help prioritize what is the most impactful issue you are grappling with.\'a0 I find in therapy that when the central issue is revealed, understood, processed, and understood again in its current context, many other areas of the person's internal experience improve.\'a0 It sounds as though something has prevented you from seeking help from a counselor in the past, and it sounds as though you are more seriously considering it now.\'a0 Therapy helps and it can help you when you're ready.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"The short answer is: absolutely not! The longer answer is that it might take some time to process all of the issues, and it may feel quite ""muddy"" in the issues for a lot longer than is tolerable (which is why counseling may have been postponed to begin with for you.) It's important to be realistic when entering counseling of any sort, and that the therapist be realistic with you about what you might be able to expect working with that person (I use the words ""might be able to expect"" because therapy experiences can vary.) But that not having counseling about trauma that you have experienced much earlier in your life can play a significant role in the process and how long that process could take to unpack all that may have been buried over time.It might also be helpful in counseling to work with the therapist on figuring out where to begin, but to also manage the feelings of being overwhelmed that may make it hard to continue to show up and do the work required, week in and week out. It isn't easy work trying to process past pain that you experienced, and so consistent practice of self-care, including leaning on support systems outside of therapy, is key.",

"Thank you for sharing your history. You do not have too many issues to address in counseling. It will help to prioritize what you would like to work on first in therapy. Your therapist will create a treatment plan with you, which can always be changed while working together. Therapy is a process in working towards your best life, and you deserve it.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"The short answer is: absolutely not! The longer answer is that it might take some time to process all of the issues, and it may feel quite ""muddy"" in the issues for a lot longer than is tolerable (which is why counseling may have been postponed to begin with for you.) It's important to be realistic when entering counseling of any sort, and that the therapist be realistic with you about what you might be able to expect working with that person (I use the words ""might be able to expect"" because therapy experiences can vary.) But that not having counseling about trauma that you have experienced much earlier in your life can play a significant role in the process and how long that process could take to unpack all that may have been buried over time.It might also be helpful in counseling to work with the therapist on figuring out where to begin, but to also manage the feelings of being overwhelmed that may make it hard to continue to show up and do the work required, week in and week out. It isn't easy work trying to process past pain that you experienced, and so consistent practice of self-care, including leaning on support systems outside of therapy, is key.",

"Not at all! Whatever issues you might have you can bring to the therapy room. Remember therapy is about YOU, not your therapist. You bring whatever you need to bring to the table. Keep in mind these issues are likely related. Remember you are a holistic being, more than just the sum of the parts. Just like any system, when you move something in one area, things start changing in other areas as well. Talk to your therapist to decide goals for counseling and establish priorities, and ENJOY THE RIDE! Growing, flourishing, and finally letting go of what hurts can be a beautiful and exciting process.",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"The short answer is: absolutely not! The longer answer is that it might take some time to process all of the issues, and it may feel quite ""muddy"" in the issues for a lot longer than is tolerable (which is why counseling may have been postponed to begin with for you.) It's important to be realistic when entering counseling of any sort, and that the therapist be realistic with you about what you might be able to expect working with that person (I use the words ""might be able to expect"" because therapy experiences can vary.) But that not having counseling about trauma that you have experienced much earlier in your life can play a significant role in the process and how long that process could take to unpack all that may have been buried over time.It might also be helpful in counseling to work with the therapist on figuring out where to begin, but to also manage the feelings of being overwhelmed that may make it hard to continue to show up and do the work required, week in and week out. It isn't easy work trying to process past pain that you experienced, and so consistent practice of self-care, including leaning on support systems outside of therapy, is key.",

"You absolutely do not have ""too many issues"" for counseling. Your reaching out to ask this question shows you have a resilient spirit. Also, your happy marriage can be a support and strength to you as you embark on a counseling journey. I would recommend that you find a counselor who specializes in trauma, sexual trauma and/or EMDR (a type of therapy that is proven to have a strong impact on healing from trauma). Good luck!",

Do I have too many issues for counseling?"I have so many issues to address. I have a history of sexual abuse I\'m a breast cancer survivor and I am a lifetime insomniac. I have a long history of depression and I\'m beginning to have anxiety. I have low self esteem but I\'ve been happily married for almost years.\ I\'ve never had counseling about any of this. Do I have too many issues to address in counseling?"

"The short answer is: absolutely not! The longer answer is that it might take some time to process all of the issues, and it may feel quite ""muddy"" in the issues for a lot longer than is tolerable (which is why counseling may have been postponed to begin with for you.) It's important to be realistic when entering counseling of any sort, and that the therapist be realistic with you about what you might be able to expect working with that person (I use the words ""might be able to expect"" because therapy experiences can vary.) But that not having counseling about trauma that you have experienced much earlier in your life can play a significant role in the process and how long that process could take to unpack all that may have been buried over time.It might also be helpful in counseling to work with the therapist on figuring out where to begin, but to also manage the feelings of being overwhelmed that may make it hard to continue to show up and do the work required, week in and week out. It isn't easy work trying to process past pain that you experienced, and so consistent practice of self-care, including leaning on support systems outside of therapy, is key.",

"I don't think you have too many issues for counseling.\'a0 If a client came to me for help with the same issues that you have listed here I would first want them to meet with their doctor to get a physical to rule out any biological causes to your depression, anxiety, and insomnia.\'a0 I would work with you on deciding which of these issues to tackle first.\'a0 I usually suggest starting with the issue that is easiest.\'a0 Reading through your symptoms I might choose anxiety to start with since you are in the early stages of it.\'a0 I like to give my client skills they can use right away, so I would focus on teaching you breathing exercises to manage the anxiety as well as cognitive restructuring so that when an anxious thought pops up you can talk yourself through it.\'a0 Once you felt that you had some control over the anxiety I'd start to work on some of your other concerns, but I would seek your input on what you felt like might be good to work on next.\'a0 My gut is that some of these issues would be resolved as you worked on others.\'a0 For example as you worked on your anxiety and began to process your trauma and as you began to work on self care and getting more sleep - your self esteem would probably improve.\'a0 I encourage you to meet with a therapist and ask them how they might be able to help you.\'a0 These are just some thoughts that came up for me on how I might help someone with the same or similar symptoms.",