Is Therapy For Me?
There’s lots of reasons folks seek therapy. You don’t have to be in an active crisis to start. Read more about what therapy can offer.
Why Therapy?
Therapy is one of many tools that exist to enhance and strengthen our mental health. One of the benefits often touted is that therapy can give you additional tools to manage stressors in your life (going through a divorce, major life transitions, loss of loved one, trauma, etc) and this is true. Therapists are trained and well versed to help folks learn tangible, effective ways to manage distressing emotions without causing more harm to you/your situation. I think the biggest selling point for therapy is that it provides a safe, non-judgmental place to verbalize thoughts, emotions, sensations that we all experience though oftentimes attempt to bury or hide out of shame or fear.
Where Do I Start?
My best tip for beginning therapy is to do your research first! Check out some directories for therapists, make a few appointments and see who fits with you. I love Mental Health Match because it’s so customizable and user friendly. Lots of people get discouraged and end up deciding therapy is not for them after one session with, perhaps, the wrong therapist for them. As a therapist, I can confidently say that I am not for everyone, but I am the right fit for some.
I’m Scared- This is New
You can overcome the fear of therapy by going to therapy! The right therapist will encourage a discussion of the fear and will honor those feelings. Also, I can't say enough about the benefits of speaking to people who have been in therapy. Ask them what it's like, what does the first session entail? Most therapists offer a free initial phone consultation which is the perfect time to ask your questions, get some answers, and see if you feel comfortable continuing with them.
Who Should Get Therapy?
Folks who are constantly trying to manage their emotions and yet they won't stop interfering with their ability to function would be helped by speaking to a therapist. It can be so validating and comforting to know that you're not alone and have someone to walk beside you on your path to healing. If you find yourself overcome with worry, dread, not wanting to get out of bed, overthinking the seemingly smallest details or perceived slight, just know that it can get better. The short answer is that although everyone can benefit from therapy, that doesn’t mean it’s easy, free or simple to find one. Looking to find out more about what to ask and how to choose a therapist? Click here.
Therapy is not just what you see on TV. It’s not a gray haired cis White man staring at you and asking “how do you feel about that?” Therapy has evolved and there’s truly a right fit for everybody. If you’re someone wondering about therapy, EMDR therapy, and how it all works, contact me to chat today.
