For much of human history, our emotional struggles were not primarily dealt with in private conversations with professionals. Instead, we would seek comfort and counsel within our own relationship networks: family members, neighbours, friends, faith communities and in the confessional. We would speak honestly and openly with those who knew us well and who we trusted were invested in our long-term wellbeing.
Today, however, these structures are often weaker. Extended families live further apart and friendships are fragmented by busy schedules, constant mobility and geographical distance. Many of us are hesitant to burden others with our worries, preferring instead to take them to someone we pay by the hour.
