Connections Can Be Made

By Jennifer Larson, LCPC, NCC

On July 29th, I wrote a blog, "Can connecting with others through social media really work?"  I wrote this before Larson Counseling & Consultation kicked off its first "Let's Talk" series via Facebook during a specified one hour LIVE time-frame later that evening.

My colleague and I logged on.  The first 15 minutes were quiet -- quiet as a mouse.  Those 15 minutes felt particularly long because we did not know if anyone was present on the other side.  How would one really know when you are on Facebook?  Sure, you can see folks that are online and logged in, but it doesn't give you any more information than that.  It made me think that connecting with others via social media can be experienced -- or in our case during the first 15 minutes, not experienced.

After the lull, people started to 'message' us questions.  Good questions that pertained to the topic for that evening -- Let's Talk Therapy.  It was the first time where we 'connected' in this format.  I have to admit, somewhat reluctantly, that I felt a sense of a connection that took place.  By no means, does connecting via Facebook provide a comprehensive clinical or therapeutic connection, but nonetheless, there was a connection of sorts.  And I thought -- this is worth mentioning.

In the next 10 minutes or so, we are about to start our 2nd series, "Let's Talk Emotions" on our Facebook page. We hope to be able to engage and connect while providing some help. 

Disclaimer:  This 3-part "Let's Talk" Facebook series is not intended to give a diagnosis or provide treatment for a mental health disorder.  But, it may help to start an informal dialogue around possible symptoms associated with mental health disorders and to gather general information pertaining to personal, work, and/or family challenges.  Make sure you see your doctor or mental health provider if you think you may have symptoms of a mental health disorder.

Can Connecting with Others Through Social Media Really Work?

By Jennifer Larson, LCPC, NCC

I am somewhat of a late-bloomer when it comes to certain things, and using social media for my business is one of them. 2014 marked the year for me to jump on the bandwagon and sign up with various social media forums. Folks in the field of psychotherapy and counseling have long shunned away from social media, such as Facebook, for various factors (and with good reason), such as concerns around confidentiality, the inherent barriers that exist with truly connecting to another, and so on.  

When working with my clients, I have long touted the benefits of generating and identifying as many viable options (solutions or coping tools) as possible when facing challenges and obstacles in life. Why not I, as a therapist, consider as many options as possible when it comes to connecting and helping others?

Just minutes away, Ashley and I are taking the first attempt at connecting with others via Facebook by offering a Q&A. It is the start of our "Let's Talk" 3-part series. Tonight, people can ask questions related to counseling and therapy. Examples, such as: Which issues warrant counseling?  What is the difference between individual, couples, child, and family therapy? What can I expect in therapy?  What will it be like for my child or teenager to experience counseling? What are the benefits?

Looking forward to discovering a different way to connect.  

Free "Let's Talk" Series via Facebook

By Jennifer Larson, LCPC, NCC

Please join us for a free "Let's Talk" 3-part series that starts on Tuesday, July 29, 9-10pm CST. IT'S EASY! From your phone, computer, or any other device, 'like' us on Facebook. You ask a question and we provide an answer. For details on how to participate, please read the flyer. We look forward to talking!