The Truth About Therapy
In the years I have worked as a therapist one of the top questions I encounter is, "Am I crazy?" Or some form of that question. Somehow in our world truly needing help has been associated with being crazy. At times life happens and mentally I would argue we all have or will feel a little "crazy" at some point in our life. I hear the word crazy used when one feels overwhelmed, stressed, fearful, or thinking about something too much. In reality needing some help sorting through an emotion, behavior or a thought is completely normal. Seeking mental health therapy, counseling, or seeing a therapist can make that process so much easier.
What if needing help isn't a sign something's wrong with you, but a sign you're paying attention? So let's clear up a few of these myths, shall we?
Therapy is only for people with severe mental illnesses: Think therapy is only for the "big stuff"? I'd push back on that. Examples include, but are not limited to, stress, job loss, grief, direction for the future, anxiety, panic attacks, sadness, depression, marriage struggles, parenting concerns. It's not exclusive to severe conditions.
Therapy is only about talking; it doesn't provide practical solutions: My goal anytime someone walks in my office is to help them sort out what they want in that moment as well as long term. This process is guided by questions that help us identify what is needed to give them practical solutions.
Only "crazy" or weak people go to therapy: Seeking therapy is a sign of strength and self-awareness. Knowing when you need some help is insightful. Often the act of setting up an appointment begins to facilitate action resulting in growth before a person ever enters the therapist's office. It's a proactive step towards improving mental well-being, not a sign of weakness.
Therapists have all the answers: I sure hope this isn't TRUE because I definitely don't have all the answers. I feel extremely honored that clients choose to trust me during this time of need and do my best to use genuine curiosity to help them figure out their next best step as well as a long-term solution.
Therapy takes a lifetime: Oh, I hope not! It's NOT one session longer than you need. The duration of therapy varies for each individual and depends on the goals.
Therapy is only for adults: Therapy is available for individuals of all ages, including children and adolescents. Unless a child or adolescent specifically requests therapy, I often work with parents to help them feel confident in addressing a particular concern themselves.
You must have a specific problem to go to therapy: Therapy can be beneficial for helping folks be proactive, grow personally, and improve overall well-being, not just for sorting out problems.
Therapy is only for emotional issues, not practical ones: Therapists can help individuals navigate practical challenges, such as work stress, relationship issues, and life transitions, in addition to emotional concerns. All of which really creates a feeling of confidence in folks' lives.
Therapy is a one-size-fits-all approach: Every person who walks in my door is different, and honestly? What works for one person might completely miss for another. That's not a flaw in therapy — that's the whole point.
Therapists judge or share your personal information: Therapists are bound by confidentiality and ethical standards by law. My license through Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) is in jeopardy should I share your information. I take very seriously each person's confidential information and consider it a privilege they have chosen me to share their story, I do not take that lightly.
It is my honor to walk with each person that chooses me to help them move forward in their life.
If you have something you want to achieve or work through and want some help, please contact me at 970-729-3545. I will spend 15-30 minutes at no charge talking with you in order to help you decide if I am a good fit for you and whether it is something I can help you accomplish.
Photo credit: Punky @punkturesphotography