Support That’s Needed

Fools think their own way is right, but the wise listen to others.

“I just don’t know if he needs it,” a friend shared over the phone as we were discussing whether or not her child should attend therapy.

As a therapist, I am aware of the struggle, so I told my friend. “I don’t know if your child needs therapy or not, but here’s what I do know. He’s asking for it. He’s asking for help, so if we step back and look at the bigger picture of his whole life, this is just one more moment where he’ll be able to look back on his childhood and say, ‘My parents listened to me. They helped me when I said I needed it.’ And that is just as important, if not more so, as what therapy may or may not accomplish right now.”

“Yeah,” she responded.

“And truly, if he feels like therapy would be helpful, talking to someone about our emotions and thoughts is always good. It could help him develop better coping strategies for his life.”

“That’s true,” she sighed. “Parenting is hard.”

“It is,” I agreed. “But you’re doing the right thing.”

We hung up with promises that I would send her some recommendations for therapists in our area who I thought would be a good fit for her son. She messaged me later that she’d set up an appointment for him the next month and thanked me for the information.

Asking for help isn’t always easy. Whether it’s for ourselves or someone we love, it’s hard to admit we may need some outside support or input. But Scripture reminds us that fools think they are on the right track, but the wise listen to the advice of others.

Sometimes another perspective is needed for clarity. If we support our loved ones (and ourselves) by getting help when it’s needed—whether from a therapist, pastor, or other trusted professional—we show that we are trustworthy and willing to seek out assistance when it’s needed most.

Let’s be the kind of Christians who, when someone says they need help, are ready to listen. Let’s take their concerns seriously. And let’s find the assistance that’s needed.

Kendra

Today’s Act of Gratitude

Thank someone who has listened to you and offered wise counsel, and then support someone around you who is asking for help.