There are so many different types of therapy out there. And for every type of therapy, there are misconceptions and misunderstandings. Some people will never go to therapy. Other people will go once for a few months to get through a particularly challenging time and some will go throughout their life doing different types of therapeutic work at different times.
What is Therapy?
Therapy is a process in which we can better familiarize ourselves with our emotions, thoughts, and habits. This work is done in collaboration with another person, the therapist, who serves as a sounding board and guide through self-exploration. Therapy is relational, and the work we do in the room with the therapist can help clarify and heal old wounds. Therapy is many things to many people. It can be a profoundly safe space to do deep inner work that can benefit one’s mind, body, heart, and relationships.
Why Therapy?
Therapy is not just a quick fix. It’s not a place where you come to get something in “three quick sessions”. Though therapy looks different for different people it is always an opportunity to come regularly and explore your life and inner world. The therapist is there to be your mirror and to reflect and challenge thought patterns that might be outdated or stuck as well as provided support and acceptance.
Throughout life, we will experience a number of ups and downs. How we deal with life challenges will impact who we are and colour our lives. Therapy is a place where one can explore the challenges we face like a sudden death in the family, loss of a job, promotions and job stress, divorce, miscarriage, heartbreak, drug addiction, abuse, and so on. Therapy is also a place where we can delve into the more spiritual or passionate sides of life. It is likewise a place where we can explore our shadow side; the things we don’t tell other people about, the fantasies or fears we usually keep to ourselves, or that we may not even realize we have brewing in us.
There is a misconception that therapy might not be “for me” and is for someone else perhaps someone “dealing with mental illness”. I think it’s very important to point out this other-ing language that is being used with such a statement. Though it is important to identify and treat mental illness the people who are dealing with it are people. They are our friends, teachers, doctors, bankers, lawyers, sisters, brothers, and children. If we think of therapy as the place that only treats mental illness we do two things; we might not go because we don’t identify with having a mental illness and we other and stigmatize those who do go.
Therapy is for everyone
Therapy is truly a place for all. Young and old can come to partake in the therapeutic process. Therapy for children does look and feel slightly different than for adults but that is because play is the primary mode that children process and learn. To read more about therapy for kids click here. Adults on the other hand can come, sit, and the process by talking and listening. If you are someone that is thinking about therapy and curious to know more make a few calls and set up some first sessions. See what is out there and who you might want to work with. If you have questions ask them.
Therapy could be for you if you…
- Have you ever wanted to know more about yourself?
- Have you ever been interested in your subconscious or about parts of you that drive you to do things other parts of you don’t want to do?
- Are you haunted by a memory, dream, or experience from your past?
- Do you feel strong emotions in your body?
- Do you feel no emotions?
- Are you overwhelmed by critical thoughts, negative self-talk, and judgments?
- Have you ever wanted to experience a healthy relationship and improve your communication skills?
If you answered yes to any of those questions therapy just might be for you! We are living in a busy time, with lots of work and family responsibilities but also with a pull to our phones and other addictions. Therapy is a place where you can make time for yourself and look at the pushes and pulls of life. How do you want to spend your time? Being thoughtful about that question may help you decide if therapy is worth it or not for you right now.
