b'MAY 2024itsessentialtopinpointthespecificaspects that did not meet their expectations. Sometimes, mismatchesbetweenclientsandclinicians can occur, leading to suboptimal experiences.Contrarytocommonmisconceptions,mental health professionals are not miracle workers or mind readers; effective communication serves as the cornerstone of the therapeutic process. Additionally,itsworthdispellingthemyth thattherapyisfinanciallyinaccessible.While affordability has historically been an issue, many insurance companies now cover behavioral health treatments, with Medicaid playing a significant role in supporting such services. Furthermore, therapists often offer flexible payment options, includingslidingscalefeesorprobono services,toensurethatfinancialconstraints donothinderindividualsfromseekinghelp.In closing, the stigma of shame, disgrace, and dishonor do not equate to receiving mental health treatment.Receivingmentalhealthtreatment doesnotmeanyouaredisgrace,advocating for yourselfdoes not dishonor your family, in actuality it may change generational behaviors forfuturedescendants.Shameandwellness cannot coexist, being judged for seeking help is where we as a community need to step up. Stigmas are often placed as a result of fear and ignorance. As a community, as a culture, we did not overcome centuries of oppression and suffering asacommunity,tosufferinsilence,alone.SheilaN.Hughes,LicensedProfessional Counselor/LicensedAddictionCounselor www.glowupcounseling.comAdvertise with UsBOCNEWS.COMFollow us on 4'