Financial Distress Counseling
Kids. Sex. Money. These three things are the oft-cited top contributors to
marital distress, and for good reason. Today’s atmosphere of global financial crisis places extra emphasis on the last of those, as many couples who once were financially stable or secure are now experiencing distress over their money and their future. Common issues include:
Financial Insecurity
The last couple of years has brought significant changes to the
financial and housing markets, causing many families to lose some or all of their hard-earned investments. Foreclosures and short sales are common occurrences, and even the savviest of savers may question their ability to retire or finance their children’s education. And for many more, the question isn’t as far off as retirement, but a much more immediate concern: how am I going to cover my bills this month, and still put food on the table?
Long-term stress takes a powerful toll on us physically and emotionally, and
financial stress is no different.
Financial Distress: Unemployment
Unemployment rates are at a disturbingly high level as many struggle to find a place in our volatile economy. We often define ourselves largely by what we do; in the absence of a job, many people feel a distinct loss of identity as well as a loss of income and security. Unemployment is often accompanied by feelings of shame and embarrassment, as well and boredom and frustration. Long-term stretches of unemployment can take a heavy toll on one’s sense of self, impacting not only self-esteem but relationships with loved ones as well.
Financial Distress: Family Finances
For couples,
financial problems are often a sensitive source of conflict. Each of us hold strongly rooted beliefs about money and finance management, many of which may reside deeply within our subconscious. Differences in these beliefs for each partner can trigger intense conflicts that seem to have no resolution. Clear and open communication between couples about their
financial beliefs can alleviate much of the conflict as they learn to manage their differences calmly and effectively.
Financial stress can lead to depression, anxiety, and increased conflict in couples and families, as well as taking a physical toll. Prolonged periods of stress can greatly diminish our critical thinking skills, deplete our emotional resources, and leave us physically worn out. Working with a therapist can help you to maximize your strengths and minimize the effects of stress on your life.
At Symmetry Counseling, we can help you:
- Identify and maximize stress reduction and anxiety management techniques
- Understand the impact of the economy on your lifestyle
- Create and live by a budget
- Identify skills and strengths for job seeking
- Practice key interpersonal skills
- Explore hidden beliefs about money and money management
- Learn skills and techniques for managing conflict related to finances
- Develop and initiate plans for reducing debt and living within one’s means
- Establish common goals within the family and enact plans for achieving them
If you or your family is struggling with
financial issues, including unemployment, contact Symmetry Counseling today. We accept many types of insurance and are willing to consider sliding scale fees for those who are in need of support.
