A Case For Formal Education & Ethics in Spirituality. Why I returned to School. | letters from Dena

education is a symbol of the willingness to do the work

I have sat among many talented women and am frequently in awe of how these medicine women hold space. I have learned from wisdom keepers who have taken a few classes and started working. Sometimes it works well, and sometimes it does not. This makes a case for formal education and ethics in spirituality.

I have learned from talented individuals who have direct lineage going back generations. These folks have put in a lifetime of training and there is something special about having the ability to tap into these sources of wisdom.

I have also learned from licensed therapists who masterfully weave spiritual traditions with formal modern education.

No matter the path, I do see the opportunity for tremendous healing in places where healers have dedicated time and hours to the work they do. I find myself most comfortable in the Indigenous traditions and those who meet at the intersection of Indigenous and modern approaches.

I have also found that for me -- I need to be able to hold space energetically, spiritually and psychosocially with the tools, training and equipment that only a formal educational path and licensure can provide.

This is not necessarily a judgement call, but a matter of personal ethics.

I began to realize that there is a depth of the psyche that medicine men and women find themselves navigating that my personal comfort level does not sit well with in the absence of formal mental health training.

So, I returned to school for a second graduate level degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

In the journey of life, many people find themselves seeking guidance and support. When it comes to navigating life's challenges, the role of a counselor becomes crucial.

Counselors are individuals who are not only trained but also bound by a code of ethics to ensure the well-being of their clients.

This ethical foundation is paramount in fostering a safe and trusting environment, where individuals can feel understood and supported. Counselors are committed to confidentiality, respect, and the non-judgmental acceptance of their clients, which forms the cornerstone of their practice.

Their primary goal is to empower individuals to overcome personal obstacles and achieve a sense of well-being.

Unlike life coaches, who often focus on achieving specific goals and personal growth, counselors are equipped with extensive education and licenses that enable them to handle more complex emotional and psychological issues.

This distinction is vital because it ensures that counselors are well-prepared to address a wide range of mental health concerns, from anxiety and depression to trauma and grief.

The rigorous training they undergo involves learning about human behavior, development, and various therapeutic techniques, which are essential for providing effective support.

The licensing process further guarantees that counselors adhere to high professional standards and ongoing education, ensuring that they remain informed about the latest research and best practices in the field.

While life coaches may offer valuable motivation and support for certain goals, the depth and breadth of knowledge that counselors possess make them uniquely qualified to address deeper emotional and mental health needs.

Choosing a counselor means selecting someone who is not only compassionate but also equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to facilitate healing and personal growth. It is this combination of empathy and expertise that makes the role of a counselor so significant and their contribution to mental health care so vital.

Ultimately, seeking the support of a licensed counselor is a decision that honors the complexity of human emotions and the importance of receiving care from a qualified professional.