In tough times, counselors offering their services free

A group of local counselors who recognize the need for someone to listen are offering their services free of charge for anyone at least 18 years old.

The program is called SHARE (Support, Help, and Resources for Encouragement).

"It's important to offer assistance because so many people cannot afford counseling, and so many people who need help, don't know where to turn," says Colleen Gingerich, a local licensed counselor.

"Economic stress can impact so many aspects of your life, and when you don't have anyone to talk to, the level of stress increases... but knowing you do have someone who will listen can help reduce that stress."

Although SHARE was established several years ago, Gingerich wants to remind everyone that they are still meeting each Thursday, from 6-7:30 p.m., at the Jones Center, 950 N. 7th East St., across from the Nazarene Church.

Participating counselors who take turns guiding the sessions are Connie Powers, Lynn Crenshaw, Glenda Breslin and Gin Smith.

According to Gingerich, two counselors are always on-hand at each meeting and the typical turnout of visitors is anywhere from one to five people.

"It's an open forum without limitations or formalities," she says. "People will find the atmosphere friendly and relaxed and topics for each session are determined by the need of each group. People drop in and don't feel obligated to come back the next week. They return only because they want to. Some people need more time, some people need less."

SHARE provides an opportunity that can help people better direct their lives no matter what the issues are. Topics can range from losing your job to dealing with a serious illness to your troubled teen.

Various resources are also available during SHARE, such as information about food and low-income housing, parenting, divorce and domestic violence.

For more information, call 587-4444.