One of the most common reasons people seek counseling today is anxiety. While everyone experiences worry from time to time, anxiety goes beyond the occasional stressful day. It can show up as racing thoughts, constant “what if” scenarios, trouble sleeping, difficulty concentrating, irritability, physical tension or a feeling that something bad is always around the corner.
Anxiety often convinces us that we need to stay in control of every situation, yet the more we try to control the uncontrollable, the more overwhelmed we become. In today’s fast-paced world, filled with constant notifications, busy schedules, financial pressures, family responsibilities and an endless stream of information, it’s no surprise that anxiety has become one of the most common mental health challenges affecting people of every age.
Children, teenagers, parents, working professionals and retirees can all experience anxiety, though it may look different in each stage of life.
The encouraging news is that talking to a licensed counselor can help. Counseling provides a safe place to explore the underlying causes of anxious thoughts while learning practical skills to manage them.
Therapists often help clients recognize unhealthy thinking patterns, develop healthy coping strategies, establish realistic boundaries and practice techniques that calm both the mind and body. From a Christian perspective, counseling also creates space to reflect on God’s promises, strengthen one’s faith and remember that our identity is found in Christ rather than in our circumstances.
Those who have been struggling with persistent anxiety should know that they are not alone, and they do not have to carry the burden by themselves. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness or a lack of faith; rather, it is an act of wisdom and courage.
Just as we seek medical care when our bodies need healing, caring for our mental and emotional health is just as important. Whether someone’s anxiety feels mild or overwhelming, early support can make a significant difference.
First West Church recognized the need for faith-based mental health support for the community, so it created the First West Counseling Center over 25 years ago. Its counselors are honored to walk alongside individuals and families as they navigate life’s challenges.
First West Counseling Center exists to provide affordable, professional and confidential Christian counseling to members of First West, the local community and individuals in surrounding states.
Its licensed therapists provide counseling for adults, couples and children for a wide variety of needs, including anxiety, depression, grief, relationship challenges, trauma, life transitions, parenting concerns and more. Whether you are facing a difficult season or simply need someone to walk alongside you, First West Counseling Center is there to offer hope, healing and practical support in a safe and welcoming environment.
Whether someone is navigating a season of uncertainty, processing a painful loss, strengthening a marriage or simply looking for support through everyday challenges, its counseling team provides individualized care tailored to each client’s needs.
The counseling team includes licensed professional counselors (LPCs), provisionally licensed professional counselors (PLPCs), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFTs) and a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW).
In order to make the First West Counseling Center accessible to as many people as possible, it does not bill insurance, and session fees range from $35 to $65, depending on the counselor. These affordable prices eliminate the need for clients to utilize their health insurance.
Please keep in mind that in order for clients to use their insurance for counseling, most providers require a diagnosis of a mental illness or disorder. However, for clients who choose to use their insurance, an option is available on-site.
In addition to in-person counseling, the facility hosts two support groups. One is a GriefShare support group for those who have lost a loved one, and the other is an AA group for those struggling with alcohol addiction.
GriefShare is a Christ-centered, biblically based hybrid program that is part seminar and part discussion. This program consists of 13 weekly sessions accompanied by a video component for each topic covered. You can learn more about GriefShare by visiting www.griefshare.org, and you can learn more about the AA group at www.ladistrict4.org/meetings/.
Also, if you are looking for a quick piece of advice or insight into everyday topics, the center has an ongoing video series called “Take a Minute” that is released on its Facebook page every other Wednesday. You can even subscribe to get the video a day early by signing up on its website.
Reaching out for counseling can feel intimidating, but taking that first step is often the beginning of meaningful change.
Learn more about the First West Counseling Center on its website at www.fwcounseling.cc or call 318-322-1427 to schedule an appointment. The First West Counseling Center team is here to help!
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