How Counseling Can Help Women Achieve Success

| Friday, February 11, 2011
By Colette Dowling


In spite of all of the talk about the equality of the sexes that has occurred over the past few decades, society in general, and the business world in particular, still view this, primarily, as a "man's world."

Regardless of their capabilities, qualifications, and achievements, women continue to face an uphill battle for the equality and success they deserve. According to a study of 9,000 male and female MBAs conducted by Catalyst, a non-profit organization for women in the workplace, 54 percent of the males received higher than entry-level positions while only 40 percent of the women fared as well, even though they had the same level of professional experience. Similarly, annual starting salaries at first jobs averaged $4,600 higher for men.

Many businesses prefer to invest more in men because they assume young women entering the workforce after college will have children within a few years. While this assumption may or may not be accurate, many women admit that family commitments may disrupt their careers and, as a result, tend not to lobby for change.

Unfortunately, the professional roadblocks for women continue throughout their careers. Another study, conducted by the Columbia School of Business and the Women's Executive Circle of New York, found that at the 100 largest public corporations based in New York, women held only slightly more than 10 percent of the C-level positions.

Is There Help Available for Women Trying to Achieve Success?

Many women in our society manage a variety of quite disparate roles: career professional, spouse, and parent to name just a few. The time and energy required to prioritize tasks and responsibilities, make effective decisions, and manage numerous relationships can feel overwhelming. If a woman doesn't find ways of practicing self-care, anxiety and depression may well occur.

Fortunately, help is available for women who are determined to live life to its fullest and are looking for success in all areas of their lives. One of the most effective self-care activities is professional counseling.

If you're a woman who feels underappreciated, overwhelmed, or are just looking for something more out of life, professional counseling -- whether in the form of individual counseling or group therapy -- can provide you an opportunity to:

Openly express your feelings, desires, and frustrations

Determine and prioritize your goals

Work through and resolve any difficulties or challenges you're facing, be they personal or professional

Overcome self-doubt

Improve your personal and professional relationships

Achieve greater balance and self-understanding

Move forward in life and achieve the success you desire

Learn how to negotiate with bosses and co-workers

With good counseling and support, you can achieve success in all areas of your life. A professional psychotherapist who specializes in counseling services and therapy for women can help you overcome the hurdles you face as you work toward having a fully rewarding life.




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