Why People Seek Therapy?

As a psychologist, I often see people hesitant to take the first step towards therapy. Maybe it’s the stigma, the fear of the unknown, or simply not knowing if it’s “really necessary” (American Psychological Association, 2017). But here’s the truth: therapy isn’t just for people in crisis. It’s a proactive investment in your mental and emotional well-being, just like going to the gym for your physical health (National Institute of Mental Health, 2019).

Here are some reasons why seeking therapy can be incredibly beneficial:

• Understanding Yourself Better: We all have blind spots in our thinking and behavior. Therapy provides a safe space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and motivations. Through this exploration, you can gain valuable self-awareness and identify areas for growth (Corey, 2017).
• Developing Coping Skills: Life throws curveballs. Therapy equips you with tools to manage stress, anxiety, difficult emotions, and challenging relationships. These skills empower you to navigate life’s obstacles with greater resilience (Norcross & VandenBos, 2018).
• Healing from Past Hurts: We all carry baggage from past experiences. Therapy can help you process past traumas, understand their impact on your present, and move forward in a healthier way (American Psychological Association, 2017).
• Improving Relationships: Communication and conflict management are essential for healthy relationships. Therapy can help you develop better communication skills, improve empathy, and set healthy boundaries (Gottman & Gottman, 2017).
• Boosting Self-Esteem: Negative self-talk can hold you back. Therapy can help you challenge negative thought patterns, cultivate self-compassion, and build a strong sense of self-worth (Corey, 2017).
• Personal Growth: Beyond addressing challenges, therapy can also be a catalyst for personal growth. It can help you identify your values, set goals, and reach your full potential (American Psychological Association, 2017).

Even if you’re functioning well, therapy can be a valuable tool for preventative care. It’s like a regular check-up for your mental health. Think of it as an investment in your overall well-being, leading to a happier, more fulfilling life (National Institute of Mental Health, 2019).

Here are some additional things to keep in mind:

• Therapy is a collaborative process. You and your therapist work together to define your goals and develop a treatment plan that’s right for you (American Psychological Association, 2017).
• Finding the right therapist is key. Don’t be afraid to interview a few therapists before making a decision. You want someone you feel comfortable and safe with (Norcross & VandenBos, 2018).

Therapy takes time and commitment, but with regular sessions and active participation, you’ll see progress (National Institute of Mental Health, 2019). Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. If you’re considering therapy, don’t hesitate to take that first step. You deserve to feel your best.

 

American Psychological Association. (2017). Therapy overview. American Psychological Association. https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/psychologists/what-is-the-apa-psychology-and-its-impacts-in-the-united-states/

Corey, G. (2017). Theory and practice of counseling and psychotherapy (9th ed.). Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole Cengage.

Gottman, J. M., & Gottman, J. (2017). Eight dates: Essential conversations for a lifetime of love (2nd ed.). Penguin Random House.
National Institute of Mental Health. (2019). Therapy.

National Institutes of Health. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6998909/

Norcross, J. C., & VandenBos, G. R. (2018). Integrated psychotherapy and counseling: A guide to eclectic practice (5th ed.). Wiley.