There are so many reasons that people go to therapy and not all therapy is the same. I think it is important to examine the many ways that therapy can help to determine if it is right for you. Some reasons you may have already considered but others may take you by surprise.
Reasons to go to Therapy
Gain a deeper understanding of yourself. Therapy is a tremendous tool for gaining insight. There is a misconception that something has to be broken, you need to be “fixed,” or there needs to be a diagnosis to start therapy. Absolutely not. Talk therapy is used to deepen awareness of patterns of behavior, how your history influences your present, and how you present yourself to others. I find this type of therapy is very effective for introspective people who like to think deeply about their actions and why they do the things that they do. A licensed therapist can help bring forth questions and ideas that you perhaps had not considered and will then help you process through them. In these scenarios, there are no “right” answers, it is more so about processing ideas to better learn your own mind, how you tick, and what you value. A licensed therapist will also be able to identify patterns of behavior. They can gently point out your defenses, how you respond the certain stimuli, and even how you make other people feel while in your presence. This information can be so valuable as you move forward in your world. It can influence decision making and relationship patterns.
Processing through uncomfortable emotions or daily distress. Life can be really challenging even when it is good. Some people consider therapy but do not pursue it. They don’t think their concerns are worthy of professional help. But just because you do not have a diagnosed disorder does not mean that you are undeserving of therapy. Life brings a whole host of discomfort, including stress, sadness, and overwhelm. Having a designated weekly space to unpack all of these concerns can leave you feeling lighter in the other areas of your life. Many people can relate to the cathartic feeling of expressing their emotions and having them received and understood. Active listening can be a truly healing process that enhances the rest of your life.
Going through life transitions. Life transitions can be both good and bad. From moving, job changes, having kids, or changing relationships, there can be an air of excitement but also uncertainty and fear. Having a positive transition often includes a safe and stable base, realistic expectations, and a support system. Therapy can help you dissect what you will need to embark upon your latest life transition to set you up for success.
Ongoing mental health treatment. For people who have a diagnosed mental health condition, ongoing therapy is a crucial part of support and treatment. Even if you are prescribed medication, research suggests that medication is not as effective without talk therapy alongside it. Medication may help reduce immediate symptoms but therapy often creates better lifestyle patterns and coping skills. For example, if you are diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), you may be prescribed an anti-depressant that can reduce low mood and anhedonia. Talk therapy can then help you better understand yourself and the life circumstances that are likely to trigger a depressive episode. It can teach skills bespoke to you to help manage moods on a day-to-day level. Therapy gives you a supportive and safe space to continuously check-in and keep you on track. Mental health care is as important as physical health care and regular management of a diagnosed condition is what leads to positive outcomes.
Building a lifestyle you value. Therapy should be used to enhance your life. Talking to a licensed therapist will likely bring up areas in your life that you want improved. A therapist can guide conversation in a way that helps you best identify your values and how you want to enact them day-to-day. You will be asked to examine your current routines, how you use your time, spend your money, and who you invest your connections in. Unpacking these routines should lead to some deep questions about what you get out of each interaction and if it is building you up or depleting you mentally and emotionally. You will be faced with how you value yourself and tasked to enact patterns where you show up positively. This practice can be very hard, requires time and patience, and a lot of support. This type of therapy is for those who truly want to invest into themselves and are ready to embrace temporary discomfort for a long-term healthier outcome.
Conclusion
There are so many reasons to go to therapy and therapy can offer tremendous value to your life. Finding the right type of therapist suited to meet your needs is crucial for its success. Research has shown that the single best predictor of therapy outcome is the therapeutic alliance – which is the relationship between client and therapist. Understanding your needs and your “why” for therapy is a good place to start as you seek out a well-matched provider. Everyone is worthy and deserving of support.
If you would like to learn more about our services and how therapy can help, please reach out today. We see teens, adults and couples. Contact us for a complimentary consultation.
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