Would Counseling Mess Up Your Chances?

[rapturer]

Cutting to the chase...I have had some eating disorder problems and some mild anxiety problems in the past. Never been on any kind of medications, been to any kind of doctor, etc. They were really, really bad, oh, last year and the year before that. But, this year they are really starting to die down a lot. But, the thing is, I know they are not just going to "disappear." I think about them a lot so I know I am not completely over it yet.

So, my mom knew about those problems and did have me scheduled to see a counselor. Just a counselor, not a psychologist or anything. But, then she canceled. I was kind of disappointed because I'm really ready to get over it. She did this because of a heated argument I had with her a number of days before, in which I probably said some choice words I didn't necessarily mean but at the time...I was just angry. So, I find out that she canceled it because she is scared that I am going to say something to the counselor to get her into trouble for something. Sure, I probably do have somethings against her...but I wasn't planning on actually saying anything. But, she didn't actually TELL me that was the reason...that's just what I assumed because it was so close together and there was NO other reason (she wouldn't have had to pay for it or anything..) why she would have done it.

So, when I asked her about it she said she canceled it because she didn't want me to risk my chances of being in the FBI or whatever. So, I was like...why? Well, they would do a background check on me and find out that I was "crazy" and went to a shrink and they wouldn't want to hire me. Okay, yes I know that they probably don't want people who are not stable, but that's why I wanted to get over this NOW and not have it hanging around until later. But, I mean, come on! I'm just going to talk about somethings with somebody. I don't even know if going to a counselor will be put on your record..?

My question...is my mom just pulling this out of her arse so I don't "turn her in" for something? Or does she really know what she is talking about? Because, by all means, if it risks my chance of not being able to get the job I want (which is in LE..that's what I want to do so if I can't work there I have basically no other options..) Will it show up if someone is doing a background investigation or what? I just really want to know if it would be okay if I went and just worked out some of these minor problems in my life without causing harm to my future.

Thanks guys! Sorry about the longness. I'm really, really tired and I'm just kinda rambling for some reason. I need to go to bed. Ugh.

[DeltaV]

If you need counseling, go to counseling. It's that simple.

Yes, you may have to disclose it when you apply. Yes, you will have to take a polygraph examination stating that you've disclosed everything about any past psychological treatment. Depending on what happens during the counseling (ie. getting referred to a psychiatrist), it could adversely effect your chances of getting hired.

That said, if you have psychological issues, any psychologist will be able to identify them when it comes down to your psych test. It's not like you can 'fool' them by not attending counseling.

[SnapShawt]

Your health and well-being, both physical and mental, are far more important than any future prospects in any career. Don't avoid seeking help if you need it based on that.

[rapturer]

I think I'm the only kid in the world that WANTS to go to counseling. But, the problem is, I can't drive myself, pay for it myself, etc, and I don't think my mom is going to sign me up for it again.