Counseling When Facing Illness or Injury

Vulnerability is pervasive

Persons living with serious or chronic illness or injury are physically vulnerable and subject to strong emotional and spiritual challenges that are difficult to endure.

Illness or injury not only brings up fretfulness and fear, but it forces us to navigate relationships with our often distraught and out of sorts loved ones.

It’s not uncommon to experience a degree of estrangement and an inability to express our vulnerability or despair.

As a result, we may turn inward as a way to narrow our world, and this can increase our loneliness at a time when we might benefit most from the comfort of others.

Facing difficult emotions

Facing an illness or injury brings with it unique and abiding challenges.

Not only do we have to face emotions such as uncertainty, despair, longing, anguish, anger, or melancholy, but we may also be forced to face our own mortality.

Even if one has a strong spiritual or religious foundation, facing mortality or serious disability can be daunting and disruptive.

A sacred process

As a chaplain and counselor I have helped individuals and families come to terms with a significant diagnosis, disease, injury or terminal illness.

The process often is to help clarify what’s most important while creating a safe, sacred and peaceful space for the individual to find some order in an otherwise swirling and disordered universe.

It’s also centered on keeping an eye on family dynamics and ensuring that lines of communication remain open. I may, when and if appropriate, offer meditation, prayer or poetry.

Readiness for something different

Are you ready to receive support?

Let’s talk.

Click on the button below to schedule a free phone consultation with me without having to pick up the phone. (The link will take you to my automated scheduler.)