I believe counseling cannot be successful without honesty, openness to change, dedication, hard work, and strength. People come to counseling for many reasons, but most people seek counseling because they want a “change” in their life. Please keep in mind that this “change” may, at times, be challenging, difficult, and possibly painful. However, the goal should always be to bring about some positive change within you. Therapy should provide a safe place to explore behaviors, thoughts, and feelings about yourself and others in your life and allow you the opportunity to practice new ways of thinking and/or interacting in a safe environment before utilizing these skills in the “real world.”