Know before you go: Jewish Family Services of WNY prepares individuals to take first steps towards mental wellness

Guest Editorial by Jewish Family Services of WNY press release

If you’re considering making an appointment for your first therapy session, know that you’re not alone. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 1 in 5 American adults experiences mental illness. In addition, research shows that most adults report experiencing significant stress or a major life event each year, highlighting how common it is to need extra support at different points in life. 

In advance of Mental Health Awareness Month this May, the behavioral health team at Jewish Family Services of WNY (JFS) is helping to prepare individuals for their mental wellness path, while also debunking a few myths that may stop people from taking the needed first step.

“There are a lot of misconceptions about counseling, but it’s important to normalize what it really is. Therapy isn’t just for people with serious mental health concerns – it can be helpful for anyone navigating stress, relationships, life transitions, or simply wanting to grow,” said Dr. Katie Diebold, vice president of behavioral health and wellness programs, JFS. “Seeking support is a sign of strength. It takes a lot of self-awareness to recognize when something isn’t working the way you want to, and even more courage to be willing to put the work in and talk about it with someone else.”

The JFS behavioral health team stresses that counseling is a collaborative process where you build insight and practical skills such as setting health boundaries, improving communication, and becoming more emotionally intelligent. Therapy also doesn’t have to be long-term, and there are often accessible and affordable options available.

The first step on the path toward mental wellness is recognizing when to seek professional support. If your mood, energy and overall functioning begin to interfere with daily life, reaching out to a licensed mental health professional is an important act of self-care. A mental health professional can provide a space where you can share your thoughts and feelings openly, knowing that what you say is held in confidence.

Once you’ve decided to meet with a mental health professional, your first appointment is about creating a space where you feel safe, respected and heard as you begin this process. It’s an opportunity to begin getting to know one another at your own pace. You can share as much or as little as feels comfortable; and together, you and your counselor can start to explore what brought you to counseling.

Diebold added, “While it might feel a little uncomfortable at first, many people find that counseling becomes a safe and supportive space over time. Counseling can be a helpful tool to support yourself through different stages of life and can make things feel more manageable along the way.”

JFS provides evidence-based, culturally responsive treatment and support to clients facing a wide range of mental and behavioral health concerns. JFS serves clients starting at the age of 5. Licensed clinicians utilize their expertise and ongoing, specialized training to address trauma, eating disorders, problem gambling, depression, anxiety, grief, and other issues related to emotional well-being. Appointments are available in person or via tele-mental health. For more details on the behavioral health services available at JFS, visit jfswny.org.

More about Jewish Family Services of WNY: Since 1862, Jewish Family Services of Western New York has been providing all members of the community with critical health and human services, regardless of religion, ethnicity, cultural background, gender identification, ability or age. The services from elder care to refugee resettlement to behavioral and physical health are provided by professional staff and supported by an extended family of dedicated volunteers and generous donors. For more information, visit jfswny.org.

Editor’s note: Niagara Frontier Publications provides a guest editorial platform to professional organizations looking to better the community. However, Niagara Frontier Publications does not provide or endorse any medical treatment or medical course of action. Please consult with your own doctor or a medical professional.