Embarking on a therapy journey can be as unique as the individual taking that step. If you’re new to therapy or planning on seeking help, this guide is here to answer your questions. But before starting, remember that taking the first step towards therapy requires courage and strength, so be kind to yourself and show yourself love.
Understanding Therapy and How It Can Help You:
Think of therapy as a trusted travel guide, helping you navigate the terrain of your emotions. While most of us are very capable of handling our emotions, a lot of times we fail to understand them and thus, even though we can “handle” them, we fail to do so in a healthy way. This can take a toll on our mental health.
No Couches, No Dramas:
Contrary to what you might have seen in movies or TV series, therapy doesn’t always involve lying on a couch with dramatic revelations in front of your therapist. It’s a safe space for honest conversation and is not just limited to that but also entails a series of self-work and realizations that you might undertake with your therapist. One doesn’t need to always physically see a therapist but can seek help through multiple means.
The Right Therapist For You:
Finding the right therapist is like choosing the perfect adventure partner – it’s important to be comfortable. The most crucial aspect of choosing the right therapist is your ability to be comfortable and the value of help that you get, not what you might have seen in a fictional therapist character on-screen.
Start of a journey:
Your first appointment is like setting out on a road trip; it’s adventurous but also a bit nerve-wracking. It’s okay to take your time with your therapist. If you don’t feel comfortable physically meeting one – seek out help through an online therapist.
Building Trust:
Trust is the foundation of any successful therapeutic journey. Be yourself and trust that your therapist is there to support you, not judge.
Slow and Steady:
Unlike the rapid-paced revelations you might have seen in some movies, therapy is a very gradual, steady process. Every session is a step towards understanding your emotions better. So take your time and don’t be afraid to be at your own pace.
Dismantling Stigmas:
Before you start your therapy, it’s important to debunk the myths. Seeking help is not just for the “broken” or the “crazy,” so steer clear from opinions or people who don’t prioritize mental health. Don’t forget to remind yourself that you are incredibly capable and strong for even thinking about therapy and taking that step.
Embarking on your therapy journey is like embarking on an adventure – it’s filled with twists and turns and many discoveries. Before starting on your journey, remember that therapy isn’t about seeking dramatic transformations. It’s about embracing your unique path towards healing and emotion regulation.
