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Published
by the Corpus Christi Caller-Times. CLICK FOR NEWSPAPER DELIVERY
Sunday, September 30, 2001
Therapists to give free sessions to those living in fear
By Guy H. Lawrence
Caller-Times
Free counseling
Free counseling for stress due to terrorist attacks:
1 p.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday
4 p.m. to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday 4639 Corona, Arbor Counseling Center, Suite 41.
Red, white and blue balloons will be outside the office. Walk-ins are accepted or call for appointment: 853-8882
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The terrorist attacks on New York City and Washington, D.C., have produced a range of emotions across the country, from despair to patriotism.
Unfortunately, parents can display that fear and uncertainty to their children, who are often unable to deal with emotions, said Barbara King, a licensed professional counselor.
To help those adults and children deal with their fears initiated by the terrorist attacks, local counselors and therapists will conduct free individual therapy sessions Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Between five and eight therapists and counselors have volunteered their time for this service, King said. People who want to participate can remain anonymous, she said.
Children who exhibit a change in behavior might be experiencing fear induced by the attacks, King said. A child that is very outgoing and talkative may become quiet and withdrawn, or another child might suddenly become combative.
The best ways parents can help their children is to talk to the children about their fears regarding future attacks and their own safety, King said.
"What we recommend is that the parents talk to their children, remain calm when they talk to their children and be honest," King said.
Even adults need to talk about their fears and take positive actions, said David Grover, a stress management counselor. Grover, who owns the Stress Management Center, said positive actions could alleviate negative emotions. Grover encourages people to replace panic with power and replace fear with faith.
"We go down the line of emotions they are feeling and I try to show them how to tap into that opposite emotion to empower them," Grover said.
People who repeatedly watch the World Trade Center attack scenes are susceptible to anxieties.
The answer is to turn off the television and read a book, spend time with the family or play games, Grover said.
"Focus on the things you have control over and let go of the things you don't have control over is the bottom line," Grover said. "You can go donate blood, donate your time and volunteer."
This disaster brought out a feeling of patriotism unheard of for decades across the country, both said.
That is one way to help children feel safe, King said.
"That is a wonderful way to let your children know we have a strong country," King said.
Contact Guy H. Lawrence at 886-3792 or at lawrenceg@caller.com
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© 2001,
a Scripps Howard newspaper. All rights reserved.
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