How Do You Know?
/When taking the big step towards getting help; going to a therapist, there are a lot of emotions and questions that will be present. How do you know that you're doing the right thing? Let's take a look at some of them that are normal for most people.
Q. Why do I need therapy? Isn't that just for people who are seriously mentally ill?
A. Typically, if you find your mental health symptoms, whether they be anger, depression, anxiety, addiction, etc., are causing you significant problems in your life, your relationships, your work, or even in your leisure activities, then therapy may be the most helpful thing you can do for yourself. Also, if someone you love is telling you that you need help, maybe you do.
Q. I feel stuck, so what can I do?
A. Coming to therapy can do wonders to get you unstuck and help you gain mastery of your fears, habits, and emotional instability.
Q. Do I really want to talk about my problems with a stranger?
A. Often, having a neutral third party to explore personal, and sometimes painful, issues with can be most helpful. Some of the charged emotions that we feel when we are in the presence of family and friends, are minimized by the presence of an empathetic person that has only your best interests in mind.
Q. I met the therapist and really do not feel comfortable. What should I do?
A. Not everyone is a good fit for each other. Just make sure that you're not getting cold feet, and, if not, then go and interview another therapist. Please remember that you are the consumer.
Q. I haven't been to my medical doctor in years, should I do that first?
A. You always want to rule out medical reasons for psychological problems by getting a yearly physical. Therapy or not, please see your doctor yearly.
Q. What will everyone think about me going to therapy?
A. Your mental health is no less important than your physical health, so why think of it differently. Yes, in some areas, and with some people, stigma does exist for mental health treatment. Since mental health problems impact a huge percentage of the population, most people see getting help as courageous and healthy. One caveat though, mental health is not visible like a broken leg, so people may not understand if you're experiencing serious mental health symptoms. Assertive communication helps others understand the challenges you face.
Q. What about medication?
A. If the therapist is not a psychiatrist (which I am not), then you would be referred to psychiatrist for an assessment for medication. Medication is proven to work best in conjunction with verbal therapy. Medication is indicated for some people and not for others. It may be prescribed for a short duration, or longer if indicated.
Of course, this doesn't answer all of the possible questions or thoughts you may have, so feel free to email me with the ones on your mind. Therapy can be the key to unlocking your potential, which may have been stunted by trauma, neglect, abuse, illness, or grief. One final benefit of therapy is a shared intimate experience with another person, something that often brings meaning to our lives.
