Getting to the root of the problem …

During most initial consultations with people requesting counseling services from Scott Free Clinic, I ask the person I’m meeting with if they have ever pulled weeds.

Most initially respond with a surprised expression, as if they’re thinking, “Did he just ask me if I have ever pulled weeds?”

In all the times I’ve asked the question, only one person said no, they had never pulled weeds!

So, the person usually responds with a tone of being perplexed, “Yes …”

Then I ask, “What happens if you don’t get the roots?”

The person usually immediately responds, “Then the weeds grow back.”

The same is true regarding whatever the problem, trouble, or challenge you’re seeking counseling for. If you only treat the symptoms, but don’t identify and address the root cause to your concerns, they will only come back after you’ve tinkered with the symptoms.

Let’s use a real example. Some clients have suffered from panic attacks, which can be a very scary experience. We can immediately talk about steps they can take to help alleviate the symptoms of a panic attack, and we do, because they need to know how to deal with the symptoms “in the moment.” But more important is to discover the root cause for their experiencing panic attacks, and address that root cause, to help them eliminate panic attacks altogether.

While it’s helpful, and usually initially necessary, to be able to treat symptoms of something, ultimately the real need is to identify root causes (there can be more than one) and deal with whatever those are. That’s the difference between just treating symptoms of a problem, and finding a lasting solution to a problem.

If you’ve been struggling with something that you think you’ve addressed but it keeps “growing back,” chances are you’ve only tried to alleviate the symptoms of something that is the root of the problem. A competent Christian counselor can help you look beyond symptoms to help you discover what the root issues are in your life and identify the possible remedies for them.

Scotty